Space Traveler Discloses Emotional Distress In the Wake of Wave of Backlash After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also featured celebrity crewmates.

The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, recalling a check-in call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the flight.

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

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my 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 conducted tests during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her scientific research and years of training to the personal milestone of her roots – was overshadowed under the deluge of gendered attacks.

She is most acclaimed 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 university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the followers whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She added that even with the backlash, important benefits had come out of the flight, such as elevated attention for her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

The computer-piloted spacecraft departed Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that exceeded the Kármán line of outer space.

The team of pioneers also included accomplished professionals from different industries.

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