Space Traveler Shares Mental Health Struggle Following Wave of Backlash After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed 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 – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in the spring, which also included high-profile passengers.

The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a social media post, recalling a phone call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the flight.

She portrayed 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 revealed. “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 conducted tests during the mission, said everything she had worked for – including her lab work and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her background – was overshadowed under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

She is widely recognized for her pioneering work championing the cause of survivors of assault.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

A Path to Recovery

In the time since achieving her goal, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the followers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.

She added that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had come out of the flight, such as increased focus on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

About the Mission

The self-operating New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the edge of outer space.

The group of women also comprised leaders in multiple disciplines.

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