Crew Member Reveals Emotional Distress Following Deluge of Harassment After Historic Trip
A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also included celebrity crewmates.
The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, recalling a phone call from a fellow crew member in the period after the journey.
She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.
“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Buried Under Misogyny
The researcher, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and performed experiments during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her scientific research and years of training to the symbolic importance of her background – was drowned out under the tide of gendered attacks.
She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for survivors of assault.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
A Path to Recovery
In the time since reaching space, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the well-wishers whose kindness pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.
She added that amid the criticism, important benefits had come out of the flight, including spotlight on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
About the Mission
The fully automated spacecraft launched from Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of space.
The team of pioneers also included experts in different industries.
The enterprise behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a Amazon founder.
