Space Traveler Reveals Mental Health Struggle Following ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also carried celebrity crewmates.

The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as 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 social media post, referring to a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the period after the landing.

She portrayed 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 confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on women's health research and performed experiments during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her lab work and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her heritage – was buried under the avalanche of misogyny.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

A Path to Recovery

Months following achieving her goal, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the followers whose kindness were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.

She noted that amid the criticism, important benefits had resulted from the experience, including elevated attention for her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

About the Mission

The self-operating New Shepard rocket departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the Kármán line of space.

The diverse crew also comprised leaders in various fields.

The venture behind the flight is a private space firm established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.