On April 16, 2025, a wave of headlines swept across global media spotlighting two seemingly distant, but equally compelling stories: an all-female Blue Origin crew’s response to public criticism of their landmark spaceflight, and a nutritionist’s fresh ranking of the highest-protein nuts for health-conscious readers. These stories, though international in flavor, offer key lessons for Thai readers about women’s representation in STEM, public reactions to scientific endeavors, and practical dietary choices that fit modern Thai lifestyles.
The latest Blue Origin spaceflight, which featured celebrities like pop star Katy Perry, beloved US morning show host Gayle King, and acclaimed journalist Lauren Sanchez, wasn’t just another 11-minute rocket ride. Their mission was symbolic, marking a new chapter in female visibility within space exploration—a field traditionally dominated by men. But as with every leap forward, the crew also encountered social media backlash and questions about the seriousness and importance of their brief excursion. Lauren Sanchez did not mince words in her response: “I get really fired up a little bit on this,” she declared, emphasizing that the historic voyage should not be trivialized. In other words, “ไม่ยอมให้ขโมยความสุขนี้ไปแน่นอน”—they wouldn’t let critics steal their joy source: TODAY.
Why does this matter for Thai readers? Thailand’s own ambition to advance in space science—exemplified by the work of GISTDA and growing interest in STEM among Thai women—mirrors these global struggles for recognition and impact. Critics, often on social media, frequently call space tourism frivolous and stress the cost, environmental impact, or perceived lack of scientific value. But advocates argue that such missions serve as inspiration, spark public interest in STEM, and pave the way for future research—an argument that resonates in Thailand, where the struggle to foster scientific curiosity among youth is ever-present. Recent Thai government investment in satellite technology and talks of future astronaut selection make such international milestones all the more relevant source: BKP Thailand Space News.
Equally catching public curiosity was registered dietitian Natalie Rizzo’s fresh advice about nuts—a detail as down-to-earth as the space journey was sky-high. Rizzo shared her expert picks for the top three nuts highest in protein: peanuts, almonds, and pistachios. Each offers not only a protein punch but also essential nutrients like fiber, vitamin E, and an array of B vitamins. However, Rizzo cautioned that because nuts are also high in fat and calories, Thais should control portion sizes and avoid making nuts their sole source of protein. For Thai families—where nuts like groundnuts (ถั่วลิสง) are already a street food favorite—this advice fits squarely with efforts to balance tradition and nutrition source: TODAY.
This insight is supported by research published in the Asia Pacific Journal of Clinical Nutrition, which finds that regular nut consumption, when managed in appropriate servings, reduces risk of cardiovascular disease and helps maintain healthy weight source: PubMed. Thailand’s evolving urban food culture has sparked a renewed focus on plant-based proteins as health and wellness trend among younger generations, aligning with global expert recommendations.
Critically, the Blue Origin crew’s experience reflects broader challenges facing women in science and leadership. “Space travel, however brief, helps change the narrative: it shows girls—whether in Bangkok or Buriram—that they can lead, explore, and be celebrated,” says Dr. Natcha Thanarak, Thai physicist and advocate for women in STEM (interviewed in Matichon Online). At a time when gender representation in Thai science faculties remains below 30%, global milestones—like Blue Origin’s all-female flight—are powerful reminders of how visibility breeds inspiration.
Similarly, Thailand’s Ministry of Public Health’s latest dietary guidelines encourage the consumption of varied protein sources, including plant-based ones, to counter the nation’s rising rates of non-communicable diseases. The practical advice to snack mindfully on nuts fits well with long-standing Thai snack customs—think of the popularity of roasted or steamed nuts at ตลาดนัด (local markets)—but with a renewed emphasis on portion control and health literacy. Recent public health campaigns have even incorporated social media challenges inviting young Thais to share their “สุขภาพดีถั่วๆ” (nut-powered health) recipes, blending tradition with evidence-based nutrition guidance.
Reflecting on both stories, a recurring theme emerges: the tension between tradition and progress, between public skepticism and scientific ambition. As Thailand seeks to place itself on the map of the global space economy and simultaneously tackle mounting health challenges, the necessity to empower women and adopt evidence-based dietary habits becomes stronger than ever. Looking forward, experts predict that space tourism will continue to stir debate, while plant-based protein sources, including nuts, will grow in importance as urban lifestyles and dietary preferences shift.
For Thai readers, the actionable takeaway is dual: support and celebrate women’s achievements in STEM and science—no matter how small or symbolic—and make informed, mindful choices when reaching for plant-based protein snacks. If you’re inspired by the Blue Origin crew, encourage the girls in your circle to explore science, math, and engineering. And next time you pick up roasted peanuts or almonds from your local market, remember that moderation and variety are your best friends for lifelong health.
You can read more about the Blue Origin crew’s story and the latest nutrition rankings here.