Singer Katy Perry is set to blast off into space with an all-female crew on Blue Origin’s New Shepard rocket on April 14. The mission will be the first all-female spaceflight crew since 1963 and marks a milestone for women in space exploration.
The crew, which includes journalist Gayle King, former NASA rocket scientist Aisha Bowe, bioastronautics research scientist Amanda Nguyen, filmmaker Kerianne Flynn, and helicopter pilot Lauren Sánchez, has been preparing for the flight through meditation, space simulations, and training sessions. They will also be learning what to bring to space, including personal items and mementos.
The crew’s mission is expected to last around 11 minutes, reaching a height of about 65 miles above Earth. While they won’t actually reach orbit, the experience will provide valuable insights for future missions.
During their training, the women have been fitted with customized flight suits and acclimated to the capsule in which they will fly. They’ve also learned what to expect during the flight, including how to respond to ground control and where the cameras are located.
Each crew member has a 3-pound weight limit on personal items, and their choices reflect their individual personalities. Perry plans to bring something with life, while Bowe brings a flag from Apollo 12, plant samples, and conch chowder. Flynn will bring shells from an island in Malaysia, and Sánchez plans to bring the mascot of her children’s book.
The crew is also learning how to use specific phrases to ensure their safety during the flight. They’ll have until T-minus 2 minutes and 30 seconds before liftoff to say “time-out” or “I will not fly” if they feel uncomfortable or unsafe.
This mission marks a significant step forward for women in space exploration, and the crew’s preparation and excitement are palpable. With their unique blend of skills and personalities, they’re set to make this historic flight one to remember.
Source: https://abcnews.go.com/GMA/Living/blue-origin-female-crew-preparing-space/story?id=120342584