Crew Member Reveals Emotional Distress Following Deluge of Backlash Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also included well-known figures.

The mission was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a online statement, describing a phone call from a mission companion in the period after the flight.

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

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has focused her career on gynecological science and conducted tests during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her scientific research and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was overshadowed under the tide of misogyny.

She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after an attack during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.

Finding Solid Ground

Months following reaching space, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the followers whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “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 the spring, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the Kármán line of outer space.

The group of women also comprised leaders in different industries.

The enterprise behind the mission is a private space firm founded by a Amazon founder.