Space Traveler Shares Emotional Distress In the Wake of Wave of Harassment Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also included high-profile passengers.

The mission was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a online statement, referring to a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the period after the flight.

She portrayed the news reports and online discourse as an unprecedented psychological assault.

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

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and performed experiments during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her scientific research and years of training to the personal milestone of her roots – was buried under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of survivors of assault.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.

A Path to Recovery

Months following fulfilling her dream, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose support pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.

She noted that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the mission, including elevated attention for her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The computer-piloted spacecraft launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that crossed the edge of space.

The diverse crew also featured experts in different industries.

The enterprise behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company established by a Amazon founder.