Lauren Sanchez and Gayle King clap back at critics of Blue Origin space flight: 'It's a big deal'

CULBERSON, TEXAS: Gayle King and Lauren Sanchez are reflecting on their space journey after completing a memorable mission with Blue Origin.

The pair joined four other women as part of the company's first all-female crew on Flight NS-31, which launched and landed on Monday, April 14.

Gayle King responds to criticism about flight 

The 11-minute journey to the edge of space aboard the Blue Shepard rocket drew both praise and backlash online, which the crew addressed during a press conference soon after their return.

During the press conference, King responded to criticism raised by actress Olivia Munn, who had earlier questioned the purpose of the flight.

Munn had voiced her skepticism on the April 3 episode of 'Today' With Jenna and Friends.

“What’s the point? Is it historic that you guys are going on a ride? I think it’s a bit gluttonous,” Munn said, as reported by Page Six.

“Space exploration was to further our knowledge and to help mankind. What are they gonna do up there that has made it better for us down here?” she questioned.

King addressed the concerns directly, saying, “Anybody that’s criticizing it doesn’t really understand what is happening here.”

“We can all speak to the response we're getting from young women from young girls about what this represents,” King added during the discussion, according to People.

Lauren Sanchez defends Blue Origin's mission amid backlash

Lauren Sanchez, who is engaged to Blue Origin founder Jeff Bezos, also responded to the criticism.

“I get really fired up,” she said, defending the mission and the work behind it.

“I would love to have them come to Blue Origin and see the thousands of employees that don't just work here but they put their heart and soul into this vehicle,” Sanchez continued.

“They love their work and they love the mission and it's a big deal for them," she added, referring to the work being done.

“So when we hear comments like that, I just say, trust me. Come with me. I'll show you what this is about, and it's, it's really eye opening,” said Sanchez.

Aisha Bowe says criticism doesn’t match the mission’s impact

Aerospace engineer Aisha Bowe, also part of the historic flight, shared how the journey represented much more than just a trip.

“I wish those who are criticizing the mission could read the messages in my inbox,” Bowe said during the press conference.

“When I decided that I was going to pursue aerospace engineering, it was after my high school guidance counselor told me that I should pursue cosmetology because she did not think that I would be suited for this field,” she recalled.

“I went from pre-algebra in community college to two degrees in aerospace engineering to working for NASA to being able to sit on the stage and say it is bigger than the criticism.”

“Any other questions?” King added playfully at the end of the discussion.