The Briefing cover image

The Briefing

Greens cancel ANZAC day rave + Was Katy Perry’s space trip a PR stunt?

Apr 15, 2025
Dr. Chris Boshuizen is an Australian physicist and former NASA engineer who took a ride on a Blue Origin flight. In this conversation, he discusses the recent all-female space mission featuring celebs like Katy Perry, pondering if it was all a publicity stunt. They delve into the emotional transformations astronauts experience, including the powerful 'overview effect' that fosters a unique connection to humanity. The importance of female representation in space travel is also highlighted, showcasing a significant shift in the industry.
17:31

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The recent Blue Origin mission with an all-female crew has sparked debate over whether it's a genuine advancement in space accessibility or merely a publicity stunt.
  • Dr. Chris Bosshausen emphasized that private space travel investments can lead to significant technological advancements that ultimately benefit life on Earth.

Deep dives

Significance of the All-Female Spaceflight

An all-female crew, including notable figures like Katy Perry and Lauren Sanchez, recently completed an 11-minute mission aboard a Blue Origin rocket, marking a historic moment in space travel. This journey has sparked debate about its true purpose, whether it is a genuine step toward democratizing space travel or merely a publicity stunt for Jeff Bezos' company. Critics have expressed concerns regarding the optics of the female crew's presentation, questioning if it is truly about empowerment or an extravagant spectacle. However, participants like Australian physicist Dr. Chris Bosshausen believe that such events signify an essential shift in the future of space exploration, potentially paving the way for more inclusive and accessible opportunities in the field.

Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts

Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
App store bannerPlay store banner