Crew Member Reveals Mental Health Struggle After Wave of Online Abuse Following Journey
A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.
The 34-year-old activist – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also carried high-profile passengers.
The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, referring to a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the days following the journey.
She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she revealed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in women's health research and performed experiments during the mission, said everything she had worked for – from her scientific research and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her background – was drowned out under the deluge of sexist vitriol.
She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after an attack during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
The Fog Begins to Lift
Months following reaching space, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose support helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.
She noted that even with the backlash, important benefits had resulted from the mission, including spotlight on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.
The Historic Journey
The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the edge of space.
The team of pioneers also included accomplished professionals from different industries.
The enterprise behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
