In a groundbreaking announcement, Blue Origin has revealed that pop icon Katy Perry will be among the six women embarking on the New Shepard’s 31st mission (NS-31), slated for launch in the spring of 2025. This mission marks a historic moment, assembling the first all-female crew to journey into space since Valentina Tereshkova’s solo flight in 1963.
Crew Composition
Leading the mission is Lauren Sánchez, a seasoned pilot and journalist, who played a pivotal role in bringing this team together. Sánchez, also recognized for her engagement to Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, expressed her enthusiasm, stating that the mission aims to challenge perspectives of Earth and inspire future generations.
Joining Perry and Sánchez are:
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Gayle King: Esteemed journalist and co-anchor of “CBS Mornings,” King shared her excitement and apprehension about the voyage, likening it to the anticipation of childbirth.
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Aisha Bowe: A former NASA aerospace engineer and entrepreneur, Bowe is renowned for her advocacy in STEM fields, aiming to inspire underrepresented communities.
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Amanda Nguyen: A civil rights activist and Nobel Peace Prize nominee, Nguyen has been instrumental in advocating for sexual assault survivors’ rights.
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Kerianne Flynn: A media producer with a passion for storytelling, Flynn’s participation underscores the mission’s commitment to diverse narratives.
Mission Significance
The NS-31 mission represents Blue Origin’s 11th human flight and the 31st flight in the New Shepard program. Launching from Blue Origin’s facility in West Texas, the mission aims to reach the Kármán line, the internationally recognized boundary of space.
This all-female crewed flight is a significant milestone, highlighting the progress and representation of women in space exploration. Lauren Sánchez emphasized the mission’s potential impact, stating that it seeks to inspire and expand perspectives on Earth.
Historical Context
The last all-female space mission was Valentina Tereshkova’s solo flight aboard Vostok 6 in 1963, making NS-31 a historic endeavor in promoting female representation in space.
Personal Reflections
Gayle King, upon accepting the invitation, consulted with her family and close friend Oprah Winfrey. Winfrey encouraged her to seize the opportunity, highlighting the mission’s uniqueness.
Katy Perry, known for her dynamic performances and chart-topping hits, expressed her enthusiasm for the journey, viewing it as a once-in-a-lifetime experience that aligns with her adventurous spirit.
Looking Ahead
As the launch date approaches, the NS-31 mission stands as a testament to the advancements in commercial space travel and the increasing inclusivity within the aerospace sector. Blue Origin continues to pave the way for diverse participation in space exploration, inspiring future generations to look to the stars. 
