Crew Member Reveals Emotional Distress In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse After Historic Trip
A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.
The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also included well-known figures.
The mission was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a online statement, recalling a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the days following the journey.
She described the press attention and digital reaction as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.
“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
The researcher, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and performed experiments during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her studies and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was drowned out under the deluge of sexist vitriol.
She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for survivors of assault.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after an attack during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
The Fog Begins to Lift
Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.
She concluded that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the experience, including increased focus on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.
Flight Details
The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that passed the internationally recognized boundary of space.
The diverse crew also comprised accomplished professionals from different industries.
The enterprise behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company established by a Amazon founder.
