Crew Member Shares Emotional Distress In the Wake of Deluge of Online Abuse After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also featured celebrity crewmates.

The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, recalling a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the days following the journey.

She portrayed the news reports and online discourse as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” 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 conducted studies in female health science and conducted tests during the mission, said everything she had worked for – from her studies and years of training to the historic significance of her roots – was drowned out under the deluge of gendered attacks.

She is best known for her pioneering work fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after reaching space, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the followers whose kindness were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.

She noted that amid the criticism, important benefits had resulted from the flight, including spotlight on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

The computer-piloted spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The diverse crew also featured accomplished professionals from different industries.

The enterprise behind the flight is a private space firm established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.