Crew Member Reveals Emotional Distress In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Backlash After Historic Trip
A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her battle with depression after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.
The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also featured well-known figures.
The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction 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 supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the journey.
She characterized the news reports and online discourse as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.
“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and conducted tests during the flight, said everything she had worked for – including her studies and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her background – was overshadowed under the avalanche of gendered attacks.
She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.
Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
The Fog Begins to Lift
Months following reaching space, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.
She added that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the mission, including elevated attention for her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.
About the Mission
The fully automated New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the edge of space.
The team of pioneers also comprised leaders in various fields.
The venture behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
