Astronaut Reveals Emotional Distress Following Wave of Online Abuse Following Journey
A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also included high-profile passengers.
The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, describing a check-in call from a mission companion in the period after the journey.
She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
The researcher, who has focused her career on gynecological science and performed experiments during the flight, said everything she had worked for – including her scientific research and astronaut training to the historic significance of her roots – was drowned out under the tide of sexist vitriol.
She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
The Fog Begins to Lift
Now, eight months after reaching space, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose support were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she wrote.
She concluded that amid the criticism, important benefits had resulted from the experience, including elevated attention for her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.
The Historic Journey
The self-operating New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the Kármán line of outer space.
The diverse crew also featured leaders in different industries.
The company behind the flight is a private space firm launched by a well-known tech mogul.
