Space Traveler Shares Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Backlash Following Journey
A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
The 34-year-old activist – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also included well-known figures.
The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, referring to a phone call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the flight.
She characterized the news reports and online discourse as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she revealed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
The researcher, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and operated research during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her lab work and years of training to the historic significance of her heritage – was overshadowed under the tide of misogyny.
She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after an attack during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.
A Path to Recovery
Months following fulfilling her dream, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the supporters whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she said.
She noted that despite the negativity, important benefits had resulted from the experience, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
Flight Details
The fully automated New Shepard rocket departed its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the Kármán line of outer space.
The group of women also featured accomplished professionals from different industries.
The venture behind the flight is a private space firm founded by a Amazon founder.
