Crew Member Discloses Emotional Distress Following ‘Tsunami of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake 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 high-profile passengers.

The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a online statement, describing a check-in call from a mission companion in the period after the flight.

She characterized the press attention and digital reaction as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has conducted studies in women's health research and performed experiments during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her studies and years of training to the historic significance of her roots – was drowned out under the tide of sexist vitriol.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for survivors of assault.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

Finding Solid Ground

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She concluded that despite the negativity, important benefits had come out of the flight, such as spotlight on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The fully automated spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The group of women also comprised accomplished professionals from different industries.

The company behind the mission is a private space firm established by a well-known tech mogul.