Astronaut Reveals Mental Health Struggle After Wave of Backlash Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also featured well-known figures.

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

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a public message, describing a phone call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the journey.

She characterized 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 revealed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and performed experiments during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her lab work and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her background – was overshadowed under the deluge of misogyny.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of survivors of assault.

Her own goal of reaching space was paused after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after reaching space, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the supporters whose support were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she wrote.

She concluded that amid the criticism, important benefits had resulted from the mission, such as spotlight on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The computer-piloted spacecraft launched from Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that passed the edge of outer space.

The diverse crew also included experts in different industries.

The enterprise behind the flight is a private space firm founded by a Amazon founder.