Space Traveler Discloses Emotional Distress After Wave of Online Abuse Following Journey
A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.
The 34-year-old activist – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also featured high-profile passengers.
The mission was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, referring to a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the period after the journey.
She characterized the news reports and online discourse as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and performed experiments during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her studies and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her roots – was buried under the deluge of sexist vitriol.
She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.
A Path to Recovery
In the time since fulfilling her dream, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.
She noted that even with the backlash, important benefits had emerged from the flight, including spotlight on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.
The Historic Journey
The self-operating New Shepard rocket departed its launch site in April, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that exceeded the edge of outer space.
The group of women also comprised leaders in different industries.
The venture behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company launched by a Amazon founder.
