Space Traveler Discloses Depression After Wave of Online Abuse After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed 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 scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also featured well-known figures.

The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a social media post, describing a phone call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the journey.

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

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she revealed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her lab work and years of training to the symbolic importance of her background – was buried under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following reaching space, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the followers whose kindness were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she wrote.

She added that despite the negativity, considerable good had emerged from the experience, including increased focus on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The self-operating spacecraft lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the edge of space.

The team of pioneers also comprised experts in various fields.

The enterprise behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company founded by a Amazon founder.