Space Traveler Shares Emotional Distress Following Deluge of Backlash Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her battle with depression after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

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

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

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, referring to a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the days following the landing.

She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has conducted studies in women's health research and performed experiments during the mission, said every professional achievement – including her studies and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was buried under the tide of gendered attacks.

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

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.

A Path to Recovery

In the time since fulfilling her dream, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the followers whose support were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she said.

She concluded that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the experience, such as increased focus on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

Flight Details

The fully automated New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that crossed the Kármán line of outer space.

The diverse crew also comprised accomplished professionals from different industries.

The venture behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company established by a Amazon founder.