Space Traveler Reveals Depression Following ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed 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 – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also featured celebrity crewmates.

The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a public message, recalling a phone call from a mission companion in the days following the landing.

She described the news reports and online discourse as an unprecedented psychological assault.

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

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to female health science and performed experiments during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her studies and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her background – was drowned out under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is best known for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of survivors of assault.

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

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the followers whose support were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she said.

She noted that despite the negativity, important benefits had emerged from the flight, such as spotlight on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket departed Texas in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The diverse crew also included accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.

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