Astronaut Discloses Emotional Distress In the Wake of Deluge of Online Abuse After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding 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 – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also featured celebrity crewmates.

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

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

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, recalling a phone call from a mission companion in the days following the journey.

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

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has conducted studies in female health science and conducted tests during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her lab work and years of training to the historic significance of her background – was buried under the tide of sexist vitriol.

She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of survivors of assault.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after reaching space, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the well-wishers whose kindness were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.

She noted that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had come out of the mission, including increased focus on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

About the Mission

The self-operating New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the Kármán line of outer space.

The diverse crew also comprised accomplished professionals from different industries.

The company behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a well-known tech mogul.