Space Traveler Discloses Emotional Distress In the Wake of Deluge of Backlash Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also included celebrity crewmates.

The mission was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, recalling a phone call from a fellow crew member in the days following the landing.

She characterized the press attention and digital reaction as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“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.”

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to female health science and operated research during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her lab work and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her background – was buried under the deluge of misogyny.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of survivors of assault.

Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.

A Path to Recovery

Months following fulfilling her dream, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the supporters whose kindness helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.

She added that amid the criticism, important benefits had emerged from the flight, such as increased focus on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The diverse crew also comprised leaders in multiple disciplines.

The company behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.