Crew Member Discloses Emotional Distress In the Wake of Wave of Backlash After Historic Trip
A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also featured high-profile passengers.
The mission was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, describing a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the landing.
She described the news reports and online discourse as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.
“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she revealed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
The researcher, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and conducted tests during the mission, said everything she had worked for – from her studies and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her roots – was overshadowed under the deluge of gendered attacks.
She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for survivors of assault.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.
The Fog Begins to Lift
Now, eight months after reaching space, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the followers whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.
She noted that even with the backlash, important benefits had resulted from the experience, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
About the Mission
The self-operating spacecraft departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that passed the internationally recognized boundary of space.
The diverse crew also included accomplished professionals from different industries.
The company behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company launched by a Amazon founder.