Crew Member Discloses Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Wave of Online Abuse After Historic Trip
A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also carried high-profile passengers.
The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a public message, referring to a phone call from a fellow crew member in the days following the flight.
She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction 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. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and conducted tests during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her studies and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her background – was drowned out under the tide of misogyny.
She is widely recognized for her pioneering work fighting for justice for survivors of assault.
Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.
Finding Solid Ground
Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose kindness were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she wrote.
She noted that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the experience, such as increased focus on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.
About the Mission
The self-operating spacecraft departed its launch site in April, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.
The diverse crew also included experts in multiple disciplines.
The venture behind the flight is a private space firm launched by a well-known tech mogul.
