Space Traveler Shares Emotional Distress Following ‘Tsunami of Harassment After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also carried high-profile passengers.

The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, referring to a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the period after the journey.

She described the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“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.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her studies and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her background – was overshadowed under the tide of sexist vitriol.

She is best known for her pioneering work fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.

Her own goal of reaching space was paused after an attack during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.

A Path to Recovery

Months following achieving her goal, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose kindness helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she said.

She noted that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the mission, including spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The self-operating New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the Kármán line of space.

The team of pioneers also featured experts in multiple disciplines.

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