Space Traveler Discloses Depression Following Deluge of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her battle with depression after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also carried celebrity crewmates.

The mission was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.

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

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, referring to a phone call from a mission companion in the days following the journey.

She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

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

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in female health science and operated research during the mission, said everything she had worked for – including her studies and years of training to the historic significance of her roots – was drowned out under the tide of gendered attacks.

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

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since reaching space, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose kindness were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.

She concluded that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the mission, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The fully automated spacecraft departed Texas in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The group of women also included accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.

The venture behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a Amazon founder.