Space Traveler Discloses Emotional Distress Following Deluge of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her battle with depression after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

The 34-year-old activist – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also featured high-profile passengers.

The mission was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, recalling a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the period after the journey.

She described the news reports and online discourse as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“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.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in female health science and performed experiments during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her studies and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her background – was overshadowed under the tide of gendered attacks.

She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after reaching space, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the followers whose kindness helped save her. “You all saved me,” she said.

She concluded that even with the backlash, considerable good had come out of the experience, such as increased focus on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The self-operating spacecraft launched from Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The team of pioneers also included experts in various fields.

The venture behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company launched by a Amazon founder.