Astronaut Shares Mental Health Struggle Following Deluge of Online Abuse After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her battle with depression after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in the spring, which also featured celebrity crewmates.

The mission was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.

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

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a online statement, describing a check-in call from a mission companion in the period after the landing.

She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has focused her career on gynecological science and conducted tests during the mission, said every professional achievement – including her studies and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her roots – was overshadowed under the tide of misogyny.

She is best known for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.

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

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose support helped save her. “You all saved me,” she wrote.

She noted that even with the backlash, important benefits had come out of the mission, including increased focus on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket departed Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that passed the edge of space.

The team of pioneers also included leaders in various fields.

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