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Katy Perry, Gayle King, and Lauren Sanchez Soar on Historic All-Female Blue Origin Spaceflight
A historic moment launched into the skies above West Texas Monday morning, as Blue Origin sent its New Shepard rocket on a suborbital journey carrying the first all-female crew in more than six decades.
The six-woman team included pop icon Katy Perry, journalist and “CBS Mornings” host Gayle King, and entrepreneur Lauren Sanchez—who also helped organize the mission and is engaged to Blue Origin founder Jeff Bezos. Rounding out the trailblazing crew were movie producer Kerianne Flynn, women’s rights activist Amanda Nguyen, and former NASA rocket scientist turned tech entrepreneur Aisha Bowe.
The brief journey soared just over 62 miles above Earth, providing weightlessness and stunning views of the planet in a flight that lasted only minutes—but carried lasting meaning. For Perry, it was a deeply personal experience: she carried a daisy, symbolizing resilience and her daughter’s name. “They grow through cement, through cracks, through walls,” Perry said. “They are resilient.”
Gayle King’s appearance was just as impactful. Known for her fear of flying, King said the trip marked a personal victory: “I'm so proud of ME right now! I just can't believe it…”
Inside the capsule—just 12.5 feet wide—Perry gave fans a sneak peek on Instagram, joking, “Here I am. Seat number 2.” And post-launch, she shared that she sang “What a Wonderful World” while looking at Earth from space.
Blue Origin has not disclosed whether all passengers paid for their seats, nor the exact cost. Competitor Virgin Galactic has listed ticket prices ranging from $250,000 to $450,000.
Past famous Blue Origin fliers include William Shatner, Michael Strahan, Wally Funk, and Laura Shepard Churchley—daughter of the rocket’s namesake, Alan Shepard.
With only about 15 percent of space travelers historically being women, this mission stands as a powerful statement. “It’s about making space for future women, and taking up space, and belonging,” said Perry.
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By: NBC Palm Springs
April 14, 2025
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