Astronaut Shares Depression After Wave of Backlash After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also carried high-profile passengers.

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

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, describing a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the period after the flight.

She described the news reports and online discourse 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. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and performed experiments during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her lab work and years of training to the historic significance of her heritage – was buried under the tide of gendered attacks.

She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

A Path to Recovery

In the time since reaching space, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose kindness pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she said.

She noted that even with the backlash, considerable good had come out of the flight, such as spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The self-operating spacecraft departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that crossed the edge of space.

The team of pioneers also featured experts in different industries.

The enterprise behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company established by a well-known tech mogul.