Space Traveler Shares Depression Following ‘Tsunami of Backlash After Historic Trip
A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
The 34-year-old activist – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also carried well-known figures.
The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.
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 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 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 revealed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
The researcher, who has conducted studies in female health science and performed experiments during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her studies and years of training to the personal milestone of her heritage – was drowned out under the avalanche of gendered attacks.
She is widely recognized for her pioneering work fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.
The Fog Begins to Lift
In the time since fulfilling her dream, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.
She added that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had come out of the mission, including elevated attention for her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.
The Historic Journey
The fully automated New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that crossed the edge of outer space.
The team of pioneers also featured leaders in various fields.
The enterprise behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company founded by a Amazon founder.
