Astronaut Discloses Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Deluge of Backlash Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also carried celebrity crewmates.

The mission was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, recalling a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the period after the landing.

She characterized the press attention and digital reaction as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and operated research during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her scientific research and astronaut training to the historic significance of her background – was drowned out under the deluge of misogyny.

She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following fulfilling her dream, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she said.

She noted that amid the criticism, considerable good had come out of the experience, including elevated attention for her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

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

The diverse crew also included leaders in different industries.

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