Astronaut Shares Emotional Distress After Deluge of Online Abuse After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also featured well-known figures.

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

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, 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 supportive conversation from a mission companion in the period after the landing.

She described the news reports and online discourse as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and performed experiments during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her lab work and years of training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was buried under the tide of sexist vitriol.

She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following achieving her goal, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the supporters whose kindness were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She added that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the flight, such as increased focus on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

About the Mission

The self-operating New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that exceeded the edge of space.

The diverse crew also included leaders in various fields.

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