Astronaut Shares Emotional Distress After ‘Tsunami of Backlash Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also featured well-known figures.

The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.

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

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a social media post, recalling a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the days following the landing.

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.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and performed experiments during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her studies and years of training to the historic significance of her background – was overshadowed under the deluge of misogyny.

She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the followers whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.

She concluded that despite the negativity, important benefits had resulted from the mission, including elevated attention for her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

The Historic Journey

The fully automated spacecraft launched from Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the edge of outer space.

The team of pioneers also featured accomplished professionals from various fields.

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