Space Traveler Reveals Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Wave of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism 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 brief journey to space in April, which also carried well-known figures.

The mission was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, describing a phone call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the flight.

She described the news reports and online discourse as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she revealed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has focused her career on gynecological science and operated research during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her lab work and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her heritage – was buried under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since reaching space, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the followers whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.

She noted that despite the negativity, considerable good had resulted from the flight, such as spotlight on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

About the Mission

The self-operating New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The group of women also comprised experts in multiple disciplines.

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