Space Traveler Shares Depression In the Wake of Deluge of Backlash Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also featured celebrity crewmates.

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

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, describing a phone call from a fellow crew member in the period after the flight.

She described the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

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

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has conducted studies in female health science and operated research during the mission, said everything she had worked for – from her scientific research and astronaut training to the historic significance of her heritage – was buried under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose support were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.

She noted that even with the backlash, important benefits had emerged from the experience, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

The Historic Journey

The fully automated New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that crossed the edge of outer space.

The diverse crew also featured leaders in multiple disciplines.

The enterprise behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a well-known tech mogul.