Space Traveler Discloses Depression In the Wake of Deluge of Harassment After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also carried high-profile passengers.

The mission was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, referring to a check-in call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the journey.

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

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and performed experiments during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her scientific research and years of training to the historic significance of her heritage – was overshadowed under the tide of misogyny.

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

Her own goal of reaching space was paused after an attack during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since reaching space, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the supporters whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.

She added that amid the criticism, considerable good had resulted from the mission, including increased focus on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

The fully automated spacecraft departed its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the edge of space.

The group of women also comprised accomplished professionals from various fields.

The venture behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company founded by a Amazon founder.