Space Traveler Discloses Mental Health Struggle Following Deluge of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in the spring, which also carried celebrity crewmates.

The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, 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 said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, referring to a check-in call from a mission companion in the days following the flight.

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

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and performed experiments during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her lab work and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her background – was overshadowed under the deluge of misogyny.

She is widely recognized for her pioneering work championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

Finding Solid Ground

Months following reaching space, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the followers whose support were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.

She added that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had come out of the flight, including elevated attention for her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

About the Mission

The self-operating New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that passed the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The group of women also featured leaders in various fields.

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