Space Traveler Shares Emotional Distress In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also included high-profile passengers.

The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the experience, 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 social media post, describing a check-in call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the journey.

She characterized the press attention and digital reaction as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in women's health research and operated research during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her studies and years of training to the symbolic importance of her background – was drowned out under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is best known for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

Finding Solid Ground

Months following achieving her goal, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose support pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She concluded that despite the negativity, considerable good had emerged from the experience, including elevated attention for her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

The Historic Journey

The fully automated spacecraft departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The diverse crew also comprised experts in various fields.

The company behind the mission is a private space firm founded by a Amazon founder.