Astronaut Reveals Emotional Distress After Deluge of Backlash Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her battle with depression after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also featured high-profile passengers.

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

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a social media post, referring to a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the days following the flight.

She characterized the news reports and online discourse as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on women's health research and conducted tests during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her studies and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her background – was overshadowed under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.

Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose support pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She added that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the flight, including spotlight on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

About the Mission

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that crossed the edge of outer space.

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

The venture behind the flight is a private space firm founded by a Amazon founder.