Crew Member Discloses Emotional Distress Following ‘Tsunami of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after enduring 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 researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also carried celebrity crewmates.

The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, referring to a check-in call from a mission companion in the days following the journey.

She described the press attention and digital reaction 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.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has focused her career on female health science and conducted tests during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her studies and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her roots – was drowned out under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since achieving her goal, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the followers whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She concluded that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the flight, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The fully automated spacecraft launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that passed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The diverse crew also featured accomplished professionals from different industries.

The enterprise behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a Amazon founder.