Astronaut Reveals Depression Following Deluge of Backlash After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in the spring, which also included well-known figures.

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

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, referring to a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the flight.

She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on female health science and performed experiments during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her scientific research and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her background – was overshadowed under the tide of sexist vitriol.

She is best known for her pioneering work protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.

Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after reaching space, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the supporters whose support pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She noted that even with the backlash, considerable good had resulted from the flight, including increased focus on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that exceeded the edge of space.

The team of pioneers also featured experts in various fields.

The enterprise behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company founded by a well-known tech mogul.