Space Traveler Discloses Emotional Distress After Deluge of Online Abuse Following Journey
A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
The 34-year-old activist – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in the spring, which also carried celebrity crewmates.
The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, recalling a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the days following the flight.
She described the press attention and digital reaction as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.
“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Buried Under Misogyny
The researcher, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and performed experiments during the mission, said every professional achievement – including her studies and astronaut training to the historic significance of her roots – was overshadowed under the tide of misogyny.
She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.
Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
Finding Solid Ground
Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the followers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.
She concluded that even with the backlash, important benefits had resulted from the experience, such as spotlight on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.
About the Mission
The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of space.
The team of pioneers also featured experts in multiple disciplines.
The venture behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.