Space Traveler Shares Depression In the Wake of Wave of Backlash Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also included celebrity crewmates.

The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, referring to a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the days following the flight.

She characterized the news reports and online discourse as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has focused her career on women's health research and performed experiments during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her lab work and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her background – was overshadowed under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for survivors of assault.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after an attack during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following fulfilling her dream, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She concluded that even with the backlash, important benefits had come out of the mission, including increased focus on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The fully automated spacecraft departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The team of pioneers also comprised leaders in multiple disciplines.

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