Space Traveler Discloses Depression Following Deluge of Online Abuse Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

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

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

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, recalling a phone call from a mission companion in the days following the landing.

She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

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

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to female health science and performed experiments during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her lab work and years of training to the symbolic importance of her roots – was buried under the deluge of misogyny.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.

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

Finding Solid Ground

Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.

She concluded that even with the backlash, important benefits had come out of the mission, such as elevated attention for her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

The computer-piloted spacecraft launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the edge of space.

The group of women also featured experts in different industries.

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