Space Traveler Reveals Mental Health Struggle After Wave of Online Abuse After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her battle with depression after facing a relentless barrage of criticism 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 brief journey to space in April, which also carried celebrity crewmates.

The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, recalling a phone call from a mission companion in the period after the flight.

She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she revealed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has focused her career on women's health research and operated research during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her scientific research and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her roots – was drowned out under the tide of sexist vitriol.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

Finding Solid Ground

In the time since fulfilling her dream, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose support were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she said.

She noted that even with the backlash, considerable good had come out of the flight, including increased focus on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The self-operating spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The diverse crew also included accomplished professionals from various fields.

The company behind the flight is a private space firm established by a Amazon founder.