Astronaut Discloses Emotional Distress After ‘Tsunami of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her battle with depression after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

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

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

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, describing a check-in call from a mission companion in the days following the landing.

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 wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to female health science and conducted tests during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her scientific research and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her background – was drowned out under the avalanche of misogyny.

She is best known for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.

Her own goal of reaching space was paused after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

A Path to Recovery

In the time since achieving her goal, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose kindness were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she said.

She noted that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the mission, including elevated attention for her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The self-operating New Shepard rocket departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The group of women also comprised accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.

The venture behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.