Astronaut Shares Mental Health Struggle After ‘Tsunami of Backlash After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her battle with depression after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

The 34-year-old activist – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also carried high-profile passengers.

The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, describing a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the flight.

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

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on women's health research and conducted tests during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her lab work and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her roots – was buried under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

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

Her own goal of reaching space was paused after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since reaching space, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose support were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She noted that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the experience, including elevated attention for her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

The fully automated spacecraft lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the Kármán line of outer space.

The diverse crew also comprised accomplished professionals from different industries.

The enterprise behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company founded by a Amazon founder.