Space Traveler Shares Depression Following Deluge of Online Abuse After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

The 34-year-old activist – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also featured well-known figures.

The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, referring to a phone call from a mission companion in the days following the flight.

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

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and operated research during the mission, said everything she had worked for – from her studies and astronaut training to the historic significance of her background – was overshadowed under the deluge of misogyny.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

Finding Solid Ground

Months following fulfilling her dream, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the followers whose support pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.

She added that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had come out of the mission, including spotlight on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that passed the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The team of pioneers also included experts in different industries.

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