Katy Perry's spaceflight, celebrated as a milestone for female empowerment, faces criticism as a potential publicity stunt for capitalism.
The environmental impact of space tourism raises concerns about pollution and sustainability, challenging the balance between exploration and responsible practices.
Deep dives
Katy Perry and Female Empowerment in Space
Katy Perry recently made headlines after joining five other notable women on a Blue Origin spaceflight, which was framed as a celebration of female empowerment. The crew included prominent figures like Gayle King, Amanda Nguyen, Aisha Bowe, and Carrie-Anne Flynn. Their journey, lasting just over ten minutes, included floating in zero gravity while delivering messages to inspire young girls to consider careers in space. However, some critics argue that this mission serves as a publicity stunt, questioning whether such a brief experience can genuinely promote empowerment beyond the wealthy elite.
The Nature of Space Tourism
The mission was characterized as a suborbital flight aboard Blue Origin's New Shepard, designed for autonomous operation, but it raised questions about its scientific value. Experts emphasize the distinction between space tourism and space exploration, noting that while participants received the title of 'astronauts,' the limited duration of their experience did not equate to the rigorous training of professional astronauts. The flight included some scientific equipment, such as a box to measure acceleration and g-force, but overall lacked substantial research objectives. These elements highlight a growing divide in how space tourism is perceived within the context of meaningful scientific exploration.
Environmental Impact and the Future of Space Travel
Concerns were raised regarding the environmental implications of space tourism, as rocket launches contribute to atmospheric pollution. While Blue Origin claimed its rocket produced zero carbon emissions, scientists pointed out that the combustion of hydrogen still yields pollutants that can affect the ozone layer. Critics highlight a contradiction in promoting space exploration while overlooking the environmental costs associated with such ventures. As space tourism evolves, balancing the excitement of commercial space travel with responsible practices and concerns for environmental sustainability will be crucial.
It’s 2025 and Katy Perry has officially gone to space. On Monday 14th April, she strapped herself into the Blue Origin rocket and blasted off like a “Firework” with five other well-known women. The rocket is owned by Amazon billionaire Jeff Bezos and his fiancé Lauren Sanchez was also on board. The women claimed this all-female mission was to “take up space” but the reaction to the trip has been “Hot N Cold“. Some argue this wasn’t a win for feminism, only for the “Roar“ of capitalism.
But what is space tourism? And are regular people going to start flying to space and become “‘E.T.“?
The BBC’s Science correspondent Victoria Gill explains what the reaction has been and the impact space travel can have on the environment.
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Presenter: William Lee-Adams
Producers: Emily Horler and Emilia Jansson
Editor: Julia Ross-Roy
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