Blue Origin is set to etch a new chapter in space exploration with the launch of an all-women crewed mission aboard its New Shepard spacecraft on Monday.
The NS-31 mission marks the 31st flight of the suborbital vehicle and the first time in over six decades that an all-female crew will venture into space — a symbolic moment following Valentina Tereshkova’s historic solo flight in 1963.
The diverse six-member crew comprises pop icon Katy Perry, journalist Gayle King, civil rights activist Amanda Nguyen, aerospace engineer Aisha Bowe, film producer Kerianne Flynn, and Lauren Sánchez, partner of Blue Origin’s founder Jeff Bezos. The launch is scheduled from the company’s West Texas site, with the window opening at 7:00 pm Israeli Standard Time (ISR).
The participants arrived a day earlier for pre-flight training and orientation. The suborbital journey is expected to last approximately 11 minutes, crossing the Kármán line — the internationally recognised boundary of space, over 100 kilometres above Earth.
The flight, while brief, has been touted as a landmark moment for gender diversity in space science and exploration. Traditionally dominated by male astronauts, the field is now witnessing an increasing push for inclusivity.
Katy Perry, known for her chart-topping hits and global influence, expressed her excitement on Instagram.
“I’ve dreamed of going to space for 15 years and tomorrow that dream becomes a reality… I am SO honoured to be alongside 5 other incredible and inspiring women as we become the first ever all female flight space crew!” she wrote.
To commemorate the milestone, the crew will wear specially designed Monse flight suits, intended to bring a “stylish touch” to the experience. Lauren Sánchez, who played a key role in orchestrating the flight, believes the suits reflect both purpose and flair.
This will be the 11th crewed mission of Blue Origin’s New Shepard and a major public relations highlight for the space tourism venture. The mission will be livestreamed globally on Blue Origin’s official channels.
While it may not venture into orbital space, the NS-31 flight has already secured its place in history books — not just for its payload of talent and ambition, but for what it symbolises: a renewed vision of inclusivity, inspiration, and equality in the future of human spaceflight.
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