Space Traveler Discloses Depression In the Wake of Wave of Harassment After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in the spring, which also included high-profile passengers.

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

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, describing a check-in call from a mission companion in the period after the flight.

She characterized the press attention and digital reaction as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she revealed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and operated research during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her studies and years of training to the personal milestone of her roots – was overshadowed under the tide of gendered attacks.

She is widely recognized for her pioneering work protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after reaching space, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” 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 self-operating spacecraft departed Texas in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the edge of outer space.

The diverse crew also included experts in various fields.

The enterprise behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.