Space Traveler Discloses Mental Health Struggle After Wave of Backlash Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also included well-known figures.

The mission was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a public message, describing a check-in call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the landing.

She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she revealed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on gynecological science and operated research during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her scientific research and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her background – was buried under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

Finding Solid Ground

In the time since achieving her goal, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she said.

She concluded that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the flight, including increased focus on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

About the Mission

The computer-piloted spacecraft departed its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that crossed the edge of space.

The team of pioneers also comprised leaders in various fields.

The enterprise behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a well-known tech mogul.