Blue Origin has officially announced the six-person crew set to fly aboard its upcoming New Shepard NS-33 suborbital mission. Representing a broad spectrum of backgrounds—ranging from environmental conservation and law to business, philanthropy, and civil rights advocacy—the crew reflects a strong commitment to purpose-driven exploration. While an exact launch date has not yet been disclosed, Blue Origin confirmed that a live webcast will begin 30 minutes prior to liftoff.
Among the selected passengers is Allie Kuehner, a prominent environmental advocate and board member of the nonprofit Nature is Nonpartisan. A proponent of bipartisan solutions to climate issues, Kuehner believes that firsthand experiences with Earth's natural wonders strengthen the resolve to protect them.
Her husband, Carl Kuehner, Chairman of Building and Land Technology (BLT), joins her on the flight. Under his leadership, BLT has prioritized sustainability and ecological responsibility in urban development. Carl also dedicates his efforts to philanthropic initiatives focused on habitat restoration and sustainable agriculture.
Philanthropist and retired CEO Leland Larson will also take part in the mission. Formerly head of School Bus Services, Inc. and Larson Transportation Services, Larson co-founded the Larson Legacy Foundation, supporting progressive nonprofits globally. His diverse background includes military service, teaching, and a role in Hawaii’s landmark 1968 Constitutional Convention.
Flying alongside them is Georgia-based entrepreneur Freddie Rescigno, Jr., founder and CEO of Commodity Cables. A lifelong amateur golfer and archaeology enthusiast, Rescigno is drawn to spaceflight as the ultimate frontier of exploration.
Owolabi Salis, an attorney and financial consultant, brings a strong civil rights perspective to the mission. He is the author of Equitocracy and an active member of The Soul Maker Ministry, which promotes diversity and inclusion across spiritual and societal dimensions. Salis is dedicating his journey to all victims of discrimination.
Rounding out the crew is Jim Sitkin, a retired California lawyer known for his work in employee rights and class action litigation. A lifelong global traveler and volunteer, Sitkin has set foot on every continent. A childhood fan of Star Trek, he now takes a giant leap toward fulfilling his dream of venturing into space.
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