Space Traveler Reveals Emotional Distress After ‘Tsunami of Backlash Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her battle with depression after facing a relentless barrage of criticism 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 carried well-known figures.

The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, recalling a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the period after the landing.

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

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in female health science and conducted tests during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her scientific research and years of training to the historic significance of her background – was drowned out under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after an attack during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.

Finding Solid Ground

Months following fulfilling her dream, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the followers whose kindness pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she wrote.

She concluded that even with the backlash, important benefits had resulted from the experience, including increased focus on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

Flight Details

The self-operating New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that crossed the Kármán line of outer space.

The diverse crew also comprised accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.

The venture behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company established by a well-known tech mogul.