Space Traveler Shares Emotional Distress In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Backlash 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 historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also carried high-profile passengers.

The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, describing a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the days following the journey.

She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on gynecological science and performed experiments during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her studies and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was drowned out under the tide of sexist vitriol.

She is widely recognized for her pioneering work fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

Her own goal of reaching space was paused after an attack during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after reaching space, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the supporters whose support were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.

She concluded that even with the backlash, important benefits had emerged from the flight, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

Flight Details

The fully automated spacecraft lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that passed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The diverse crew also comprised experts in various fields.

The venture behind the mission is a private space firm established by a Amazon founder.