Space Traveler Reveals Emotional Distress In the Wake of Wave of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also carried celebrity crewmates.

The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who became 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,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, referring to a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the period after the journey.

She characterized the press attention and digital reaction as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and performed experiments during the mission, said everything she had worked for – including her lab work and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her roots – was overshadowed under the tide of misogyny.

She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.

Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since fulfilling her dream, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the followers whose kindness pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she wrote.

She added that despite the negativity, important benefits had come out of the flight, such as increased focus on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

The self-operating spacecraft launched from its launch site in April, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that exceeded the edge of outer space.

The group of women also featured experts in multiple disciplines.

The enterprise behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company established by a well-known tech mogul.