Crew Member Reveals Emotional Distress After Wave of Backlash Following Journey
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.
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 included well-known figures.
The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a social media post, recalling a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the aftermath of the landing.
She portrayed the news reports and online discourse as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Buried Under Misogyny
Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and performed experiments during the mission, said every professional achievement – including her studies and astronaut training to the historic significance of her heritage – was drowned out under the tide of gendered attacks.
She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.
A Path to Recovery
Now, eight months after reaching space, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “You all saved me,” she wrote.
She added that despite the negativity, important benefits had resulted from the flight, including elevated attention for her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
About the Mission
The fully automated spacecraft lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.
The diverse crew also included experts in multiple disciplines.
The venture behind the flight is a private space firm founded by a well-known tech mogul.