Space Traveler Discloses Emotional Distress After Deluge of Harassment After Historic Trip
A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.
The 34-year-old activist – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also featured high-profile passengers.
The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, describing a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the days following the flight.
She characterized the news reports and online discourse as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Buried Under Misogyny
The researcher, who has focused her career on gynecological science and operated research during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her studies and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her heritage – was buried under the deluge of sexist vitriol.
She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after an attack during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.
The Fog Begins to Lift
In the time since fulfilling her dream, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the supporters whose support helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.
She added that even with the backlash, important benefits had come out of the mission, such as spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.
The Historic Journey
The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the Kármán line of outer space.
The group of women also comprised accomplished professionals from various fields.
The enterprise behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company launched by a Amazon founder.
