Space Traveler Discloses Depression In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her battle with depression after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also carried well-known figures.

The mission was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, referring to a phone call from a mission companion in the period after the flight.

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

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she revealed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on gynecological science and performed experiments during the mission, said everything she had worked for – from her lab work and years of training to the personal milestone of her background – was drowned out under the tide of gendered attacks.

She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

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

Finding Solid Ground

In the time since fulfilling her dream, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose support were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She added that amid the criticism, important benefits had come out of the flight, including increased focus on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that passed the edge of outer space.

The diverse crew also included experts in multiple disciplines.

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