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

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also featured well-known figures.

The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, describing a phone call from a mission companion in the days following the landing.

She described 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. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and operated research during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her lab work and years of training to the historic significance of her roots – was buried under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of survivors of assault.

Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after an attack during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

Finding Solid Ground

Months following reaching space, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the followers whose support pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she said.

She added that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had come out of the flight, including spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The self-operating New Shepard rocket departed Texas in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that crossed the edge of space.

The team of pioneers also comprised leaders in multiple disciplines.

The venture behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company founded by a Amazon founder.