Crew Member Discloses Emotional Distress After Deluge of Backlash After Historic Trip
A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
The 34-year-old activist â celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate â was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also included well-known figures.
The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.
âI said the emotional pain might endure for years,â Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, describing a phone call from a mission companion in the days following the journey.
She described the news reports and online discourse as an âonslaught no human brain has evolved to endureâ.
âFor a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,â she confessed. âWeeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.â
Eclipsed by Backlash
Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and conducted tests during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts â including her lab work and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her roots â was overshadowed under the tide of gendered attacks.
She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for survivors of assault.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
Finding Solid Ground
Months following fulfilling her dream, she reports that the âfog of grief has started to liftâ, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose support were her lifeline. âYour support rescued me,â she affirmed.
She noted that amid the criticism, important benefits had emerged from the experience, such as increased focus on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.
The Historic Journey
The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of space.
The diverse crew also featured accomplished professionals from various fields.
The venture behind the flight is a private space firm established by a Amazon founder.
