A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” 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 short-duration mission in April, which also featured celebrity crewmates.
The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, referring to a phone call from a fellow crew member in the period after the landing.
She characterized the news reports and online discourse as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
The researcher, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her scientific research and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her roots – was buried under the avalanche of gendered attacks.
She is best known for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.
Months following achieving her goal, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the well-wishers whose kindness pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.
She added that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the flight, including elevated attention for her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.
The fully automated spacecraft launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the edge of outer space.
The diverse crew also featured leaders in various fields.
The company behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
Maya Chen is a seasoned tech journalist and software developer with over a decade of experience in digital innovation and cybersecurity.
