On April 14, 2025, Blue Origin's New Shepard rocket launched the NS-31 mission, carrying an all-female crew to the edge of space. This historic 10-minute suborbital flight marked a significant milestone in private space exploration.
The Crew
The NS-31 mission featured six women:
Lauren Sánchez – Journalist, helicopter pilot, and fiancée of Blue Origin founder Jeff Bezos.
Katy Perry – Pop star and philanthropist.
Gayle King – CBS Mornings co-host and journalist.
Aisha Bowe – Former NASA rocket scientist and aerospace engineer.
Amanda Nguyen – Civil rights activist and founder of Rise.
Kerianne Flynn – Film producer and entrepreneur.
The crew was led by Lauren Sánchez, who expressed that the mission aimed to inspire future generations by showcasing the achievements of women in various fields.
The Flight
The New Shepard rocket launched from Blue Origin's Launch Site One in Van Horn, Texas. The flight lasted approximately 10 minutes and 21 seconds, reaching an altitude of over 62 miles, crossing the Kármán line, which is considered the boundary of space.
During the flight, the crew experienced a few minutes of weightlessness, allowing them to float freely and observe Earth from space. Upon landing, the crew expressed their awe and gratitude for the experience.
Public Reaction
The mission garnered widespread media attention and public interest. Supporters praised the flight as a significant step toward gender equality in space exploration. However, the mission also faced criticism from some quarters. U.S. Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy questioned the necessity of such private spaceflights, especially amid global challenges. Actress Olivia Munn labeled the mission as excessive and tone-deaf, while Emily Ratajkowski expressed similar sentiments on social media.
Despite the criticism, the crew members defended the mission, emphasizing its role in inspiring young girls and promoting diversity in STEM fields. Gayle King highlighted the scientific contributions of fellow passengers Aisha Bowe and Amanda Nguyễn, who conducted experiments during the flight.
Legacy
The NS-31 mission stands as a testament to the capabilities and achievements of women in space and science. It serves as an inspiration for future generations, demonstrating that the pursuit of space exploration is not limited by gender. As the private space industry continues to evolve, missions like NS-31 pave the way for more inclusive and diverse participation in space endeavors.
