Space Traveler Reveals Mental Health Struggle Following ‘Tsunami of Harassment After Historic Trip
A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
The 34-year-old activist – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also included high-profile passengers.
The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a public message, describing a phone call from a mission companion in the period after the landing.
She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on female health science and operated research during the mission, said everything she had worked for – from her scientific research and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her background – was buried under the deluge of gendered attacks.
She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after an attack during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
The Fog Begins to Lift
Months following achieving her goal, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the followers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.
She concluded that amid the criticism, considerable good had resulted from the flight, such as spotlight on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
About the Mission
The computer-piloted spacecraft launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.
The diverse crew also comprised accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.
The company behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company launched by a well-known tech mogul.
