Space Traveler Shares Depression Following Wave of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after enduring 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 researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also carried celebrity crewmates.

The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, 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,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, recalling a phone call from a fellow crew member in the days following the journey.

She portrayed the news reports and online discourse as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on gynecological science and operated research during the mission, said everything she had worked for – including her lab work and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her roots – was drowned out under the tide of sexist vitriol.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of survivors of assault.

Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

Finding Solid Ground

Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose kindness were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.

She added that amid the criticism, important benefits had resulted from the flight, such as increased focus on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted spacecraft lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that passed the edge of outer space.

The team of pioneers also included leaders in multiple disciplines.

The enterprise behind the flight is a private space firm launched by a Amazon founder.