Space Traveler Discloses Emotional Distress In the Wake of Wave of Harassment After Historic Trip

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

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

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

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, referring to a check-in call from a mission companion in the days following the flight.

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

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she revealed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and conducted tests during the mission, said everything she had worked for – from her lab work and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her roots – was buried under the tide of gendered attacks.

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

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after an attack during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose support were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.

She concluded that despite the negativity, important benefits had emerged from the experience, including increased focus on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The self-operating New Shepard rocket departed Texas in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

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

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