Crew Member Reveals Emotional Distress In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Backlash Post-Spaceflight
A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also featured high-profile passengers.
The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, referring to a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the landing.
She portrayed the news reports and online discourse as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.
“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she wrote. “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 female health science and conducted tests during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her lab work and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her heritage – was drowned out under the tide of gendered attacks.
She is best known for her pioneering work championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
A Path to Recovery
Now, eight months after reaching space, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose kindness pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she said.
She added that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the experience, including spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.
About the Mission
The self-operating spacecraft launched from its launch site in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that passed the edge of space.
The diverse crew also featured experts in various fields.
The enterprise behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
