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

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also featured well-known figures.

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

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a online statement, recalling a phone call from a fellow crew member in the days following the flight.

She portrayed the news reports and online discourse 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 wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on female health science and performed experiments during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her scientific research and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her roots – was drowned out under the deluge of gendered attacks.

She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.

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

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following achieving her goal, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose kindness helped save her. “You all saved me,” she said.

She concluded that even with the backlash, important benefits had emerged from the flight, including elevated attention for her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

The self-operating New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that passed the Kármán line of outer space.

The group of women also featured leaders in different industries.

The enterprise behind the flight is a private space firm established by a well-known tech mogul.