Space Traveler Discloses Depression After Deluge of Backlash Post-Spaceflight
A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after enduring 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 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also carried well-known figures.
The mission was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, recalling a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the period after the flight.
She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy 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 wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Buried Under Misogyny
The researcher, who has dedicated her work to female health science and operated research during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her studies and years of training to the historic significance of her roots – was drowned out under the tide of gendered attacks.
She is best known for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of survivors of assault.
Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.
The Fog Begins to Lift
In the time since achieving her goal, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose kindness helped save her. “You all saved me,” she wrote.
She concluded that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the mission, including spotlight on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.
About the Mission
The self-operating spacecraft launched from Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that passed the edge of space.
The diverse crew also featured experts in multiple disciplines.
The venture behind the flight is a private space firm launched by a well-known tech mogul.
