Katy Perry, Gayle King, and Lauren Sánchez made history on April 14, 2025, by participating in the first all-female space mission in over 60 years aboard Jeff Bezos' Blue Origin rocket, New Shepard. This monumental flight not only showcased the growing presence of women in space exploration but also highlighted the importance of collective energy and future generations of women in science and technology.
The New Shepard rocket lifted off from Blue Origin’s private launch site in Texas at 9:30 a.m. ET, reaching an altitude of approximately 100 kilometers above Earth, known as the Kármán Line, which is the internationally recognized boundary of space. The mission, designated NS-31, lasted about 10 minutes and 22 seconds, during which the crew experienced a brief period of weightlessness. The capsule made a soft landing back on Earth, deploying three parachutes to ensure a safe descent.
As the crew prepared for launch, Perry expressed her excitement on social media, stating, "I've dreamt of going to space for 15 years and tomorrow, that dream becomes a reality." The flight included not just pop star Katy Perry but also prominent figures like CBS Mornings co-host Gayle King, journalist Lauren Sánchez (who is also engaged to Bezos), civil rights activist Amanda Nguyen, former NASA rocket scientist Aisha Bowe, and film producer Kerianne Flynn.
During the flight, Perry took a moment to sing the Louis Armstrong classic "What a Wonderful World," a choice she later explained was about appreciating the beauty of Earth and the collective experience of the mission. "It's not about singing my songs," Perry said. "It's about a collective energy and making space for future women. This is all for the benefit of Earth." King noted that while they had hoped Perry would perform one of her hits, the moment was more about the mission's significance than personal accolades.
The crew's joy was palpable during the flight, with audible cheers and excitement as they soared into space. "We're in space!" one crew member shouted, reflecting the exhilaration felt by all aboard. Upon landing, the women were greeted with applause and cheers from Blue Origin staff and their loved ones, including Perry's daughter, Daisy, who watched her mother embark on this groundbreaking journey.
After the flight, Sánchez described the view from space as "quiet, but then also really alive," emphasizing the profound connection to Earth experienced during the mission. She humorously added, "I had to come back, I mean we're getting married," referring to her upcoming wedding to Bezos.
The New Shepard rocket, a reusable vehicle designed for suborbital flights, has been operational since 2021 and has completed 10 successful missions, carrying a total of 52 passengers to the edge of space. Blue Origin's foray into space tourism has drawn both excitement and criticism, particularly regarding environmental concerns and the ethics of space travel for leisure.
Critics of space tourism argue that the funds spent on such missions could be better utilized to address pressing issues on Earth. Jan Wörner, former head of the European Space Agency, recently expressed concerns about the appropriateness of space tourism, suggesting that it should not detract from scientific research and exploration.
Despite the criticisms, the mission has been celebrated as a significant step for women in space. The all-female crew is seen as a powerful symbol of progress, breaking barriers in a field traditionally dominated by men. Perry, King, and their fellow astronauts have inspired many with their courage and determination to venture into the unknown.
In the lead-up to the flight, the crew shared their excitement and nerves, with King admitting to feeling anxious about the journey. However, she felt compelled to join the mission, stating, "There was something about being part of the first female team to me. The group of women that they put together is so extraordinary to me that I thought, 'Wow. Why would I not want to be a part of that?'"
Oprah Winfrey, a close friend of King, was present at the launch site, expressing her pride and support for the historic mission. "This is bigger than just going to space," Winfrey said. "This is overcoming a wall of fear. I think it's going to be cathartic."
The mission was not just a flight but a celebration of female empowerment and the potential for women to excel in all fields, including space exploration. As Perry remarked, "I wanted to model courage and worthiness and fearlessness." The trip serves as a reminder of the importance of representation in all sectors, particularly in areas like science and technology where women have historically been underrepresented.
The New Shepard's launch is part of a broader trend in the space industry, where commercial enterprises are increasingly taking the lead in space exploration. Companies like Blue Origin, SpaceX, and Virgin Galactic are paving the way for a new era of space travel, where private citizens can experience the wonders of space firsthand.
As the dust settled from their historic flight, the crew reflected on their experiences and the significance of their journey. With the successful completion of this mission, the hopes for future all-female crews and the continued involvement of women in space exploration appear brighter than ever. The flight not only marked a milestone in space travel but also highlighted the collaborative spirit and shared aspirations of women pushing boundaries in every field.
While the journey to the stars is just beginning, the mission's impact on society and the inspiration it provides for future generations cannot be underestimated. Katy Perry, Gayle King, Lauren Sánchez, and their fellow astronauts have set a precedent for what is possible when women unite to reach for the stars.
