Crew Member Discloses Emotional Distress In the Wake of Wave of Harassment Post-Spaceflight
A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also carried well-known figures.
The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, recalling a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the period after the landing.
She described the news reports and online discourse as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.
“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she revealed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Buried Under Misogyny
Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in female health science and operated research during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her lab work and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her background – was buried under the deluge of misogyny.
She is best known for her pioneering work championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight 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 achieving her goal, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the followers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.
She concluded that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the flight, such as increased focus on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.
Flight Details
The computer-piloted spacecraft launched from its launch site in April, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of space.
The diverse crew also featured leaders in different industries.
The enterprise behind the mission is a private space firm founded by a Amazon founder.
