Space Traveler Shares Depression In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

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

The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, recalling a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the journey.

She described 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 confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to female health science and conducted tests during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her scientific research and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was buried under the deluge of gendered attacks.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

Finding Solid Ground

Months following reaching space, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the followers whose support helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She concluded that amid the criticism, considerable good had emerged from the experience, including elevated attention for her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The fully automated New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the Kármán line of outer space.

The group of women also included accomplished professionals from different industries.

The venture behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company launched by a well-known tech mogul.