Amanda Nguyen, a 33-year-old bioastronautics research scientist and civil rights activist, made history today as she became the first Vietnamese woman to fly to space. She was part of an all-female crew on Blue Origin’s New Shepard rocket, which launched from Launch Site One in West Texas on April 14, 2025, at 9:30 a.m. EDT (13:30 GMT). The mission, designated NS-31, is particularly significant as it marks the first all-female spaceflight since Valentina Tereshkova's solo mission in 1963.
Nguyen was joined by a remarkable team of women, including journalist and pilot Lauren Sánchez, pop star Katy Perry, CBS Mornings co-host Gayle King, aerospace engineer Aisha Bowe, and film producer Kerianne Flynn. The six-member crew embarked on an 11-minute suborbital flight, reaching the Kármán line, the internationally recognized boundary of space located 100 kilometers (62 miles) above Earth.
The NS-31 mission is not just a milestone for gender representation in space; it also serves a scientific purpose. Nguyen carried 169 Vietnamese lotus seeds (Nelumbo nucifera) on the journey, which will be studied upon their return to Earth to explore the effects of spaceflight on plant growth. This initiative is in collaboration with the Vietnam National Space Center and aims to inspire youth engagement in STEM and space exploration.
As an Overview Ambassador for Space for Humanity, Nguyen’s mission is to promote the vision of making space accessible to all. "Her journey to space is not just a personal milestone but a powerful symbol of resilience, hope, and the boundless possibilities that lie ahead when passion and purpose align," the organization stated.
Nguyen’s background is impressive. She has previously contributed to the final NASA shuttle mission, STS-135, in 2011, and the Kepler exoplanet mission in 2009. Additionally, she was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize in 2019 for her advocacy work on behalf of sexual assault survivors and was named TIME's Woman of the Year in 2022.
During the flight, Nguyen was equipped with a wearable ultrasound prototype patch, developed by researchers from MIT's Women’s Health Program, which aims to enhance health monitoring in space. This research is crucial for understanding astronaut health, particularly regarding musculoskeletal deconditioning and spine elongation that can occur during extended periods in microgravity.
The crew's flight suits, designed by Fernando Garcia and Laura Kim of Oscar de la Renta and Monse, were tailored specifically for the women's bodies, breaking away from the traditional male-dominated design of spacesuits. The suits are made from a flame-resistant stretch neoprene and feature a compression layer, small pockets, and a dual-zip front. The designers aimed for a look that was both professional and stylish, ensuring that the crew felt empowered and comfortable during their historic journey.
Nguyen expressed her excitement about the flight, stating, "These suits are revolutionary and make the statement that women belong in space." Gayle King echoed this sentiment, noting that the suits were "professional and feminine at the same time." The crew's enthusiasm was palpable, with Katy Perry commenting on the future of space exploration, saying, "Space is going to finally be glam. Let me tell you something. If I could take glam up with me, I would do that."
The launch was streamed live on Space.com and Blue Origin's YouTube channel, with coverage beginning 90 minutes before liftoff. The mission's significance extends beyond the flight itself; it symbolizes a broader movement towards inclusivity and empowerment in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
Nguyen's journey is particularly poignant as it represents reconciliation between the United States and Vietnam, emphasizing science as a tool for peace. Her flight stands as a testament to the potential of women in science and space exploration, inspiring future generations to dream big and pursue their passions.
As the crew experienced weightlessness and viewed the Earth from space, they not only made history but also set a new precedent for future missions. This flight serves as a beacon of hope and a call to action for women everywhere, showing that barriers can be broken and dreams can be realized.
In a world where representation matters, the NS-31 mission is a powerful reminder that women can and do belong in every field, including space. As they returned safely to Earth, the crew of NS-31 not only celebrated their achievements but also ignited a spark of curiosity and ambition in countless individuals watching from below.
With this historic flight, Amanda Nguyen and her fellow astronauts have paved the way for a more inclusive future in space exploration, encouraging young girls and boys alike to aspire to reach for the stars.
