Space Traveler Shares Emotional Distress In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her battle with depression 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 short-duration mission in April, which also featured high-profile passengers.

The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, referring to a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the period after the flight.

She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she revealed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and performed experiments during the flight, said everything she had worked for – including her lab work and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her background – was buried under the deluge of gendered attacks.

She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.

Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

Finding Solid Ground

In the time since achieving her goal, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.

She noted that even with the backlash, important benefits had come out of the mission, including spotlight on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The team of pioneers also comprised experts in different industries.

The venture behind the flight is a private space firm founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.