Space Traveler Reveals Depression In the Wake of Wave of Backlash Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also featured high-profile passengers.

The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, recalling a check-in call from a mission companion in the days following the landing.

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

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on women's health research and performed experiments during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her lab work and years of training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was buried under the deluge of misogyny.

She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the followers whose kindness were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.

She concluded that even with the backlash, considerable good had emerged from the experience, such as increased focus on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

About the Mission

The fully automated New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that crossed the Kármán line of outer space.

The team of pioneers also featured leaders in multiple disciplines.

The enterprise behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.