Space Traveler Shares Mental Health Struggle Following Wave of Backlash Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

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

The mission was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, describing a check-in call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the journey.

She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

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

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has conducted studies in female health science and performed experiments during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her scientific research and years of training to the historic significance of her background – was buried under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

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

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

Finding Solid Ground

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the supporters whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.

She noted that amid the criticism, considerable good had emerged from the mission, such as spotlight on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

About the Mission

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket departed Texas in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that passed the edge of space.

The diverse crew also included experts in various fields.

The company behind the mission is a private space firm established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.