Space Traveler Shares Depression In the Wake of Wave of Online Abuse After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed 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 researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also featured high-profile passengers.

The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, describing a check-in call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the flight.

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

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has focused her career on gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her scientific research and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her heritage – was drowned out under the avalanche of misogyny.

She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of survivors of assault.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after an attack during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

Finding Solid Ground

Now, eight months after reaching space, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose support helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.

She noted that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the mission, including elevated attention for her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The fully automated spacecraft departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The team of pioneers also featured leaders in different industries.

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