Astronaut Reveals Emotional Distress Following Wave of Backlash Following Journey
A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.
The 34-year-old activist – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in the spring, which also included high-profile passengers.
The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, referring to a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the period after the journey.
She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“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.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
The researcher, who has focused her career on women's health research and performed experiments during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her studies and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was buried under the tide of sexist vitriol.
She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for survivors of assault.
Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.
A Path to Recovery
Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the supporters whose support pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.
She added that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the flight, including elevated attention for her women's health research and platforms for her activism.
The Historic Journey
The self-operating spacecraft launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that passed the edge of outer space.
The diverse crew also included experts in multiple disciplines.
The enterprise behind the flight is a private space firm founded by a Amazon founder.
