Astronaut Reveals Emotional Distress After ‘Tsunami of Backlash Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her battle with depression after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also included high-profile passengers.

The mission was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, recalling a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the aftermath of the journey.

She characterized the news reports and online discourse as an unprecedented psychological assault.

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

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and operated research during the mission, said every professional achievement – including her studies and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her heritage – was drowned out under the deluge of misogyny.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.

Finding Solid Ground

Months following achieving her goal, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the supporters whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.

She concluded that even with the backlash, important benefits had come out of the experience, including elevated attention for her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

The fully automated New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that exceeded the edge of space.

The group of women also comprised experts in multiple disciplines.

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