Astronaut Shares Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Deluge of Backlash Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also carried high-profile passengers.

The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, referring to a check-in call from a mission companion in the days following the landing.

She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she revealed. “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 gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her studies and years of training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was buried under the tide of gendered attacks.

She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following fulfilling her dream, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the followers whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she wrote.

She noted that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the flight, including spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The fully automated New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the edge of outer space.

The team of pioneers also included experts in various fields.

The company behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a well-known tech mogul.