On April 14, 2025, pop icon Katy Perry joined an all-female crew aboard Blue Origin’s New Shepard rocket, embarking on a brief 10-minute journey to the edge of space.
The mission, touted as a historic milestone, featured a diverse team, including journalist Gayle King, aerospace engineer Aisha Bowe, activist Amanda Nguyen, producer Kerianne Flynn, and pilot Lauren Sánchez.
While some celebrated the flight as a step forward for female representation in space, it also faced criticism for its perceived extravagance and environmental impact.
A Historic All-Female Crew
This mission marked the first all-female spaceflight since 1963, aiming to inspire future generations of women in STEM fields. Perry expressed her motivation, stating, “I am motivated more than ever to be an example for my daughter that women should take up space (pun intended)”.
The crew’s composition highlighted a blend of celebrity influence and scientific achievement, symbolizing a collaborative effort to break gender barriers in space exploration.
Public Reception and Criticism
Despite its historic nature, the mission attracted skepticism. Critics questioned the necessity and timing of such a venture amidst global crises. Model Emily Ratajkowski labeled the flight as “end time shit,” highlighting concerns over its environmental footprint.
Comedian Amy Schumer and actress Olivia Wilde also mocked the mission’s brevity and perceived frivolity. Social media buzzed with memes and sarcastic commentary, with some users pointing out the flight’s duration was shorter than certain songs.
Katy Perry & Her Perspective
During the brief period of weightlessness, Perry chose to sing “What a Wonderful World,” emphasizing the mission’s broader message. She explained, “It’s not about singing my songs. It’s about a collective energy and making space for future women“. Her actions aimed to shift the focus from personal achievement to collective inspiration, highlighting the importance of unity and representation.
Katy Perry’s venture into space with Blue Origin’s all-female crew stands as a multifaceted event, celebrated for its symbolic advancement in gender representation yet critiqued for its perceived extravagance.
The mission underscores the ongoing debate about the role of celebrities in space exploration and the balance between inspiration and practicality. As private space travel becomes more accessible, such endeavors will continue to spark discussions about their societal impact and value.
