Space Traveler Discloses Depression In the Wake of Wave of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

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

The 34-year-old activist – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also included celebrity crewmates.

The mission was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, 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,” she recounted in a public message, referring to a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the days following the flight.

She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she revealed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on women's health research and performed experiments during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her lab work and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her roots – was overshadowed under the tide of sexist vitriol.

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

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after an attack during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

A Path to Recovery

Months following fulfilling her dream, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the supporters whose kindness pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She added that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had come out of the mission, including elevated attention for her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The self-operating spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that crossed the edge of space.

The team of pioneers also included experts in various fields.

The venture behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company launched by a well-known tech mogul.