Astronaut Discloses Emotional Distress Following Deluge of Harassment Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after enduring a massive wave of online abuse 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 brief journey to space in the spring, which also carried celebrity crewmates.

The mission was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a social media post, referring to a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the days following the flight.

She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her scientific research and years of training to the symbolic importance of her background – was overshadowed under the deluge of gendered attacks.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.

Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

Finding Solid Ground

Months following fulfilling her dream, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose support helped save her. “You all saved me,” she said.

She noted that even with the backlash, important benefits had resulted from the mission, including elevated attention for her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The computer-piloted spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the Kármán line of space.

The team of pioneers also comprised leaders in different industries.

The venture behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.