Space Traveler Shares Depression Following Wave of Backlash Following Journey
A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after enduring a massive wave of online abuse 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 featured high-profile passengers.
The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, recalling a phone call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the journey.
She described the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.
“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Buried Under Misogyny
Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and operated research 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 tide of misogyny.
She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.
Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after an attack during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
A Path to Recovery
Months following achieving her goal, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the well-wishers whose support helped save her. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.
She concluded that even with the backlash, important benefits had come out of the flight, including spotlight on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
About the Mission
The computer-piloted spacecraft departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that passed the internationally recognized boundary of space.
The team of pioneers also comprised experts in different industries.
The venture behind the flight is a private space firm established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.