Astronaut Reveals Depression After Wave of Online Abuse After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn 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 – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also carried celebrity crewmates.

The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, 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,” she recounted in a social media post, describing a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the landing.

She described the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

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

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has focused her career on gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her lab work and years of training to the personal milestone of her heritage – was drowned out under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.

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

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after reaching space, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose kindness pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She concluded that despite the negativity, important benefits had come out of the experience, such as spotlight on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The computer-piloted spacecraft departed Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that exceeded the edge of outer space.

The group of women also included experts in various fields.

The enterprise behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.