Space Traveler Discloses Emotional Distress After ‘Tsunami of Backlash Post-Spaceflight

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 – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also featured celebrity crewmates.

The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a public message, recalling a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the period after the landing.

She characterized 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 wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to female health science and operated research during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her studies and years of training to the personal milestone of her heritage – was buried under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.

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

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since achieving her goal, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose kindness were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.

She noted that amid the criticism, important benefits had resulted from the mission, including spotlight on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that exceeded the Kármán line of space.

The team of pioneers also featured experts in various fields.

The company behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company launched by a Amazon founder.