Space Traveler Reveals Emotional Distress Following Wave of Backlash After Historic Trip
A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.
The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also featured high-profile passengers.
The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, referring to a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the period after the flight.
She characterized the news reports and online discourse as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.
“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and performed experiments during the mission, said everything she had worked for – including her lab work and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her roots – was drowned out under the deluge of sexist vitriol.
She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.
Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after an attack during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
The Fog Begins to Lift
Months following reaching space, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the followers whose kindness were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.
She concluded that even with the backlash, considerable good had come out of the flight, including increased focus on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.
About the Mission
The self-operating spacecraft departed Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that passed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.
The diverse crew also featured leaders in multiple disciplines.
The venture behind the flight is a private space firm founded by a Amazon founder.
