HAPPENING TODAY: Seeking to make a name for itself on the global stage, Blue Origin is set to make history today with its all-female crew spaceflight.
A pop sensation is among the trailblazers prepared to reach new heights aboard the New Shepard rocket in this groundbreaking mission.
Blue Origin is launching its historic human spaceflight from Launch Site One in West Texas.
This remarkable endeavor marks the first all-female crew spaceflight since Valentina Tereshkova in 1963.
The mission is New Shepard’s 31st and will feature iconic figures and pioneers in various fields.
The crew consists of prominent women, including journalist Gayle King, pop star Katy Perry, Jeff Bezos’ fiancée Lauren Sánchez, film producer Kerianne Flynn, former NASA rocket scientist Aisha Bowe, and bioastronautics research scientist Amanda Nguyen.
“Usually, you know, these suits are made for a man. Then they get tailored to fit a woman. I think the suits are elegant, but they also bring a little spice to space,” Sanchez said.
These women are set to experience an 11-minute autonomous flight. The rocket will reach over 100km above Earth, just shy of orbital entry.
Critics of space tourism highlight its exclusivity and environmental costs. Potential travelers like Perry signify the luxurious nature of these flights, which require a $150,000 deposit for a reservation.
Despite criticism, entities like Blue Origin argue that such ventures spark innovation. However, some, like astronaut Tim Peake, emphasize space travel’s role in addressing global issues.
Perry shared personal moments tied to this venture, pointing out her excitement that her mother had always considered her “feather” and finding it fitting that the New Shepard’s capsule features a feather logo.
“I’ve dreamt of going to space for 15 years and tomorrow that dream becomes a reality,” Perry stated.
Scheduled to launch at 9:30 am ET, this mission is Blue Origin’s 11th civilian flight, underscoring the growing prominence of non-governmental space travel.
The anticipation surrounding this launch is evident as it represents a significant step for women in both technology and space exploration.
As Blue Origin ventures forward with this groundbreaking event, it carries with it the aspirations and dreams of several women eager to see representation and advancement in the final frontier.
The mission’s successful execution will not only be one for the history books but could also prove to inspire future generations.
NS-31 launch day is here!
➡️ Live webcast: Begins at 7 a.m. CDT
➡️ Launch window: Opens at 8:30 a.m. CDT
➡️ https://t.co/TRUdJLGeBb pic.twitter.com/U1Pqe2LthC— Blue Origin (@blueorigin) April 14, 2025
