Space Traveler Reveals Emotional Distress After Wave of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

The 34-year-old activist – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also carried high-profile passengers.

The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, recalling a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the period after the flight.

She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy 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

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and operated research during the flight, said everything she had worked for – including her scientific research and astronaut training to the historic significance of her roots – was overshadowed under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

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

Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since reaching space, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose support were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.

She concluded that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the flight, including elevated attention for her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

The Historic Journey

The fully automated spacecraft lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that crossed the Kármán line of outer space.

The team of pioneers also included experts in various fields.

The venture behind the flight is a private space firm established by a Amazon founder.