Space Traveler Shares Emotional Distress After ‘Tsunami of Backlash After Historic Trip
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.
The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also included celebrity crewmates.
The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, describing a check-in call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the flight.
She described the news reports and online discourse 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 revealed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
The researcher, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and operated research during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her studies and astronaut training to the historic significance of her background – was buried under the tide of misogyny.
She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for survivors of assault.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.
A Path to Recovery
In the time since reaching space, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose kindness pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she said.
She added that even with the backlash, important benefits had emerged from the mission, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.
About the Mission
The self-operating spacecraft launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that exceeded the Kármán line of space.
The group of women also featured leaders in different industries.
The company behind the mission is a private space firm founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.