Space Traveler Reveals Emotional Distress In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse Following Journey
A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her battle with depression after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also included high-profile passengers.
The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a public message, recalling a phone call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the flight.
She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“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.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
The researcher, who has focused her career on gynecological science and performed experiments during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her studies and years of training to the personal milestone of her heritage – was drowned out under the deluge of sexist vitriol.
She is widely recognized for her pioneering work championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after an attack during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.
The Fog Begins to Lift
Now, eight months after reaching space, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the followers whose support were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she said.
She added that even with the backlash, important benefits had come out of the experience, such as spotlight on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
The Historic Journey
The fully automated New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the edge of outer space.
The team of pioneers also comprised experts in different industries.
The venture behind the mission is a private space firm founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.