Crew Member Shares Emotional Distress In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Harassment Post-Spaceflight
A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also featured well-known figures.
The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a public message, describing a phone call from a mission companion in the days following the journey.
She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in female health science and operated research during the mission, said everything she had worked for – including her lab work and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her background – was overshadowed under the avalanche of gendered attacks.
She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
A Path to Recovery
Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the well-wishers whose kindness pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she said.
She added that even with the backlash, important benefits had resulted from the mission, such as increased focus on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.
The Historic Journey
The self-operating spacecraft departed Texas in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.
The team of pioneers also included experts in multiple disciplines.
The company behind the flight is a private space firm founded by a well-known tech mogul.
