Gayle King Overcomes Fears, Embarks on Historic Spaceflight with All-Women Crew on Blue Origin

In a historic spaceflight, CBS Mornings co-host Gayle King faced her fears and embarked on a journey to the edge of space with an all-women crew aboard Blue Origin's New Shepard rocket. Despite her initial trepidation, King embraced the opportunity and ultimately described the experience as transformative.

Overcoming Fear and Embracing the Unknown

Prior to the launch, King admitted to her nervousness about flying and expressed her comfort on solid ground. To calm her nerves, she sought the guidance of meditation teacher Bob Roth, who provided her with techniques to manage anxiety. King also underwent extensive training in West Texas, where she met with Sarah Knights, a Blue Origin astronaut trainer. Knights prepared King for every aspect of the flight, from pre-launch procedures to landing.

From Training to the Launchpad

On the day of the launch, King and her fellow crew members, including pop star Katy Perry and philanthropist Lauren Sánchez, made their way to the launchpad, experiencing a mix of emotions. They donned their official flight suits, marking a significant moment in King's journey. The crew then rang the bell as they approached the capsule, signifying their readiness for the impending adventure.

A Life-Changing Experience

The spaceflight, lasting approximately 10 minutes and 21 seconds from liftoff to landing, offered the crew a fleeting yet profound view of Earth from the edge of space. Upon exiting the spacecraft, King expressed her pride and excitement, emphasizing that the experience was not just a ride but a genuine flight.

Reflections on the Journey

In the aftermath of the flight, King described the experience as peaceful and oddly quiet, allowing her to reflect on the significance of the moment. She acknowledged the courage it took to step outside of her comfort zone and expressed a newfound sense of empowerment. King also conveyed her willingness to embark on another journey to space, highlighting her growth and transformation through the experience.

Inspiring Others

King's historic flight serves as an inspiration to others, demonstrating the power of overcoming fears and embracing new challenges. Her journey aligns with the ethos of the "Never Too Late" series on CBS Mornings, which showcases individuals conquering obstacles and pursuing their dreams at any stage of life.