Just because a person is a Science researcher in one or more subjects, it may not be the case that s/he is science minded, rational and free from blind faith in all other areas. S/he may be an average man and fanatical or superstitious. Or s/he may have to feign religion to please the higher authorities.
As a result, s/he may be seen performing religious ceremonies, pujas, etc. prior to space travel to wish for the success of the venture.
However, it is normal to be criticized for and against among the common people. Such incidents may happen more in the future due to lack of education to create scientifically minded rational, sufficiently developed minded people.