Space Traveler Reveals Mental Health Struggle Following Deluge of Backlash After Historic Trip
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.
The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also featured well-known figures.
The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, referring to a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the days following the journey.
She described the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she revealed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
The researcher, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and operated research during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her lab work and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her background – was drowned out under the deluge of gendered attacks.
She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
The Fog Begins to Lift
In the time since achieving her goal, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.
She added that amid the criticism, important benefits had emerged from the mission, such as increased focus on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.
About the Mission
The self-operating New Shepard rocket departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that crossed the Kármán line of outer space.
The diverse crew also featured accomplished professionals from various fields.
The venture behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company launched by a Amazon founder.
