Space Traveler Shares Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Wave of Online Abuse After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her battle with depression after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse 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 earlier this year, which also carried well-known figures.

The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, describing a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the days following the landing.

She characterized 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. “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 women's health research and operated research during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her lab work and astronaut training to the historic significance of her background – was drowned out under the tide of misogyny.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for survivors of assault.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after an attack during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following achieving her goal, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the followers whose kindness pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she said.

She concluded that even with the backlash, important benefits had come out of the mission, such as spotlight on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The self-operating New Shepard rocket departed its launch site in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that exceeded the edge of space.

The group of women also comprised accomplished professionals from various fields.

The venture behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company founded by a Amazon founder.