Crew Member Shares Emotional Distress In the Wake of Deluge of Harassment Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a researcher and activist – 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 cited its expense and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, describing a check-in call from a mission companion in the days following the journey.

She characterized the press attention and digital reaction as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and operated research during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her scientific research and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her background – was drowned out under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of survivors of assault.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the followers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.

She added that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the mission, including elevated attention for her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The group of women also comprised leaders in different industries.

The enterprise behind the mission is a private space firm established by a well-known tech mogul.