Katy Perry safely returned to Earth last week after an 11-minute trip aboard the Jeffrey Bezos-funded Blue Origin rocket. She was joined by five other women, including Lauren Sánchez, the fiancée of Amazon founder Jeff Bezos. Perry and the crew embarked on a journey to 100 kilometers above the Earth — the internationally recognized boundary of space. The event was attended by several other members of America’s rich and famous few, such as the Kardashian sisters.
Although the six women experienced weightlessness during their flight, the trip carried significant weight for society. The New Shepard liftoff sparked outrage and controversy among some who feel it’s distasteful for Katy Perry to participate in an expensive space flight. While no official price has been confirmed for these private space adventures, rumors suggest that one seat was auctioned off to millionaires for $28 million.
Online critics have accused Perry of supporting the one percent and aligning herself with Bezos' agenda — a controversial move in the 2025 government led by Donald Trump and Elon Musk.
Crewmember and CBS co-host Gayle King responded to the backlash, saying, “I feel that anybody who is criticizing doesn’t really understand what’s happening here.”
According to Blue Origin’s website, the trip is intended for ‘the benefit of the Earth,’ aiming to create space tourism, open up a new world and advance society.
But what Blue Origin supporters seem to overlook is that the average American can’t afford plane tickets, let alone space travel. In 2025, government-funded services are being stripped away, leaving millions in poverty.
The Perry spaceflight spectacle sends a clear message: the wealthy prioritize technological advancement over the basic needs of humanity.
Even if we were to frame this trip as a celebration of science and space exploration — both important — it comes at a time when the cost of living continues to rise and essential human needs go unmet. Perry should consider addressing the urgent issues facing everyday Americans and the global community before indulging in space tourism ventures reserved for millionaires.
As a powerful cultural figure, Perry must reevaluate her political presence and relationship with her fellow citizens. While Bezos and Perry chase privatized space travel, most Americans are left struggling to just stay afloat.
The opinions desk can be reached at opinions@ubspectrum.com
