Space Traveler Shares Emotional Distress After Deluge of Harassment After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

The 34-year-old activist – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also featured high-profile passengers.

The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, referring to a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the landing.

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

“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.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on women's health research and performed experiments during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her studies and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her background – was overshadowed under the avalanche of misogyny.

She is best known for her pioneering work championing the cause of survivors of assault.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after an attack during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

Finding Solid Ground

In the time since achieving her goal, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose support were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She added that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the experience, such as increased focus on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The fully automated spacecraft launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that passed the edge of space.

The team of pioneers also featured experts in various fields.

The company behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.