SUMMARY: Pop star Katy Perry and journalist Gail King recently traveled to space as part of an all-female crew on Jeff Bezos’s Blue Origin rocket. However, they do not officially qualify as astronauts under U.S. definitions. NASA, the FAA, and the U.S. military have specific criteria for astronaut designation. NASA and military astronauts must be launched aboard spacecraft into orbit, while the FAA requires specific flight training and activities contributing to safety for commercial astronaut wings. The Blue Origin flight, which reached 66.5 miles, was autonomously operated, leaving no room for onboard activities that would meet these criteria.

Following pop star Katy Perry and journalist Gayle King’s flight to space earlier this week, many have been wondering if the women can call themselves astronauts.

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SUMMARY: Senate Bill 486, requiring single-stall gender-neutral bathrooms in some buildings, has been sent to the Governor’s Office. The bill mandates individuals use bathrooms that align with their gender at birth, raising concerns among transgender individuals. One transgender man, Gideon Dursin, expressed his worries about the law forcing him to choose between using the men’s restroom unlawfully or the women’s restroom, potentially causing distress. Lawmakers argue the bill aims to protect children, ensuring they feel safe using restrooms. The bill includes exceptions for emergencies but has raised significant debate regarding its implications for the transgender community.

Senate Bill 486 would regulate Arkansas transgender bathroom use.

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SUMMARY: CBS’ Gayle King faced her fear of heights and flying by participating in a space launch with Blue Origin. Despite her initial reservations, she prepared extensively with meditation and astronaut training. Tension mounted as she boarded the training capsule and donned her astronaut suit, which felt surreal. On launch day, surrounded by family, she experienced breathtaking views of Earth from space. Upon returning, King reflected on her transformative experience, stating that courage involves confronting fears. This journey taught her that stepping outside her comfort zone has empowered her to embrace new challenges in life.

CBS’ Gayle King conquered her fears when she blasted off on the Blue Origin Spacecraft on Monday.

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