Space Traveler Reveals Emotional Distress Following Deluge of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also featured celebrity crewmates.

The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, describing a phone call from a mission companion in the period after the journey.

She described 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 wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on women's health research and performed experiments during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her lab work and astronaut training to the historic significance of her heritage – was overshadowed under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.

Her own goal of reaching space was paused after an attack during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

A Path to Recovery

Months following fulfilling her dream, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.

She added that despite the negativity, considerable good had come out of the flight, including spotlight on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

About the Mission

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the edge of outer space.

The group of women also included leaders in various fields.

The venture behind the mission is a private space firm founded by a Amazon founder.