On April 14, 2025, Blue Origin’s New Shepard NS-31 mission made history by launching the first all-female crew into suborbital space since 1963. The six-member team included journalist Gayle King, pilot and journalist Lauren Sánchez, pop star Katy Perry, civil rights activist Amanda Nguyen, aerospace engineer Aisha Bowe, and film producer Kerianne Flynn. The mission lasted approximately 11 minutes, during which the crew experienced about four minutes of weightlessness after crossing the Kármán line—the internationally recognized boundary of space.
Despite the mission’s groundbreaking nature, it faced criticism from various public figures and social media users. Actress Olivia Munn labeled the flight as “gluttonous,” questioning the necessity of such an expensive endeavor during times of global economic hardship. Comedian Amy Schumer and actress Olivia Wilde also mocked the mission, with Wilde commenting on the high costs associated with the flight.
In response to the backlash, both Sánchez and King defended the mission’s purpose and significance. Sánchez emphasized the dedication of Blue Origin’s employees, stating, “They love their work and they love the mission, and it’s a big deal for them.” She invited critics to visit Blue Origin to witness the team’s commitment firsthand.
King highlighted the inspirational impact of the mission on young women, noting, “We can all speak to the response we’re getting from young women, from young girls, about what this represents.” She also addressed concerns about resource allocation, asserting that space exploration and addressing Earth’s challenges are not mutually exclusive pursuits.
The NS-31 mission was not only symbolic but also aimed to inspire future generations. Crew members described the experience as transformative. Sánchez shared her awe at seeing Earth from space, describing it as “quiet, but really alive.” Perry expressed profound emotions, stating she felt “super connected to love” during the flight.
This mission marked a significant milestone in promoting inclusivity and representation in space exploration. By featuring a diverse group of accomplished women, it aimed to challenge traditional perceptions and encourage broader participation in STEM fields. Despite the criticisms, the crew remained steadfast in their belief that the mission would have a lasting positive impact on society.
