Space Traveler Discloses Emotional Distress Following Deluge of Backlash Post-Spaceflight
A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.
The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also carried well-known figures.
The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, recalling a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the days following the landing.
She described the news reports and online discourse as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Buried Under Misogyny
Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on female health science and conducted tests during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her scientific research and astronaut training to the historic significance of her background – was overshadowed under the avalanche of gendered attacks.
She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
Finding Solid Ground
Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose support were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she wrote.
She noted that amid the criticism, important benefits had resulted from the experience, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and platforms for her activism.
The Historic Journey
The self-operating New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that crossed the Kármán line of space.
The diverse crew also featured experts in different industries.
The enterprise behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company established by a well-known tech mogul.
