Space Traveler Discloses Emotional Distress Following Wave of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” 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 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also featured high-profile passengers.

The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a social media post, recalling a phone call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the journey.

She characterized the news reports and online discourse as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on women's health research and performed experiments during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her scientific research and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her heritage – was overshadowed under the deluge of misogyny.

She is best known for her pioneering work fighting for justice for survivors of assault.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after an attack during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

Finding Solid Ground

In the time since achieving her goal, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.

She concluded that even with the backlash, considerable good had resulted from the mission, including elevated attention for her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The self-operating New Shepard rocket departed Texas in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The group of women also featured leaders in various fields.

The enterprise behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company established by a well-known tech mogul.