Astronaut Discloses Emotional Distress After Wave of Online Abuse Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her battle with depression after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also carried high-profile passengers.

The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a public message, recalling a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the period after the landing.

She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to female health science and operated research during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her lab work and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her roots – was buried under the avalanche of misogyny.

She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for survivors of assault.

Her own goal of reaching space was paused after an attack during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.

Finding Solid Ground

In the time since achieving her goal, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the supporters whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.

She concluded that despite the negativity, considerable good had come out of the mission, including spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The computer-piloted spacecraft lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that passed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The group of women also comprised accomplished professionals from different industries.

The enterprise behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.