Space Traveler Reveals Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Deluge of Backlash After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized 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 widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, recalling a phone call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the flight.

She described the press attention and digital reaction as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on women's health research and performed experiments during the mission, said every professional achievement – including her scientific research and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her roots – was drowned out under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

Her own goal of reaching space was paused after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She added that even with the backlash, important benefits had resulted from the mission, including elevated attention for her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

About the Mission

The self-operating spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the edge of space.

The diverse crew also included accomplished professionals from different industries.

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