Space Traveler Shares Depression After ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also featured high-profile passengers.

The mission was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, describing a check-in call from a mission companion in the days following the landing.

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

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and performed experiments during the flight, said everything she had worked for – including her lab work and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her background – was buried under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

She is best known for her pioneering work protecting the rights of survivors of assault.

Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

Finding Solid Ground

Months following achieving her goal, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose kindness helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she said.

She noted that despite the negativity, important benefits had emerged from the flight, such as spotlight on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

About the Mission

The fully automated New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that passed the Kármán line of space.

The group of women also comprised leaders in multiple disciplines.

The enterprise behind the mission is a private space firm founded by a Amazon founder.