Crew Member Discloses Emotional Distress In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Harassment Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also included celebrity crewmates.

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

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, recalling a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the period after the journey.

She characterized the news reports and online discourse as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and operated research during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her lab work and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her background – was buried under the tide of gendered attacks.

She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose support helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she said.

She concluded that amid the criticism, considerable good had come out of the flight, including elevated attention for her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The fully automated New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The group of women also comprised leaders in multiple disciplines.

The venture behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company established by a well-known tech mogul.