Space Traveler Reveals Emotional Distress In the Wake of Wave of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her battle with depression after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in the spring, which also carried well-known figures.

The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, recalling a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the period after the flight.

She described the press attention and digital reaction as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on women's health research and operated research during the mission, said everything she had worked for – from her lab work and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her roots – was buried under the tide of gendered attacks.

She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of survivors of assault.

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

Finding Solid Ground

Months following achieving her goal, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose kindness were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she said.

She added that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the flight, including spotlight on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that passed the edge of space.

The team of pioneers also featured leaders in different industries.

The venture behind the flight is a private space firm founded by a well-known tech mogul.