Space Traveler Discloses Emotional Distress In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Backlash After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also included high-profile passengers.

The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, referring to a check-in call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the landing.

She described 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.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on female health science and operated research during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her scientific research and years of training to the personal milestone of her heritage – was drowned out under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is best known for her pioneering work championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.

Her own goal of reaching space was paused after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following achieving her goal, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the supporters whose kindness were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She concluded that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the flight, such as spotlight on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The self-operating spacecraft departed its launch site in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the Kármán line of space.

The team of pioneers also included experts in various fields.

The company behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.