Stars Are Going to the Stars! Bezos to Launch All-Women Crew

Blue Origin, the aerospace company founded by Jeff Bezos, is set to send an all-women crew into space on its upcoming NS-31 mission, slated for launch in the spring of 2025, according to Variety. The crew includes a diverse group of women, such as singer Katy Perry, "CBS Mornings" co-host Gayle King, and Lauren Sánchez, Bezos' fiancée. Also joining the mission are Bahamian-American aerospace engineer Aisha Bowe, civil rights activist Amanda Nguyen, and film producer Kerianne Flynn, known for her work on This Changes Everything and Lilly, two films focused on women's empowerment and fair pay.

Sánchez, who is credited with bringing together this all-women mission, will lead the team of six. Blue Origin describes her as an Emmy Award-winning journalist, author, pilot, and philanthropist. In addition, she serves as Vice Chairperson of the Bezos Earth Fund. According to the company, this mission is designed to challenge the crew’s perspectives of Earth and inspire future generations by sharing their stories and experiences in space.

Gayle King, who recently announced her participation on CBS Mornings, expressed a mix of excitement and fear about the journey, likening her feelings to the anticipation before delivering a baby. At 70 years old, King shared that she sought advice from her children and longtime friend Oprah Winfrey before deciding to join the mission. This mission will not only represent a significant milestone for women in space but also serve as a moment of empowerment for the participants and those watching from Earth.