Crew Member Shares Emotional Distress In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Harassment Post-Spaceflight
A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath 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 in the spring, which also featured high-profile passengers.
The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, recalling a check-in call from a mission companion in the period after the journey.
She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.
“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she revealed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Buried Under Misogyny
Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her studies and years of training to the personal milestone of her background – was overshadowed under the tide of gendered attacks.
She is widely recognized for her pioneering work championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
The Fog Begins to Lift
Months following achieving her goal, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the followers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she said.
She noted that despite the negativity, important benefits had come out of the mission, such as elevated attention for her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.
Flight Details
The self-operating New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the edge of space.
The diverse crew also comprised accomplished professionals from different industries.
The venture behind the flight is a private space firm founded by a well-known tech mogul.
