Space Traveler Reveals Mental Health Struggle Following Deluge of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her battle with depression after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also carried well-known figures.

The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, referring to a check-in call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the flight.

She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

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

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and conducted tests during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her studies and years of training to the historic significance of her roots – was drowned out under the avalanche of misogyny.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

A Path to Recovery

Months following reaching space, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the supporters whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.

She added that despite the negativity, important benefits had emerged from the flight, including elevated attention for her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

The fully automated spacecraft departed its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that exceeded the edge of outer space.

The group of women also featured experts in different industries.

The enterprise behind the flight is a private space firm launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.