Space Traveler Discloses Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Deluge of Online Abuse After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also carried high-profile passengers.

The mission was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.

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

“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, describing a check-in call from a mission companion in the period after the landing.

She described the press attention and digital reaction as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on female health science and operated research during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her scientific research and years of training to the symbolic importance of her background – was overshadowed under the deluge of misogyny.

She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

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

A Path to Recovery

Months following achieving her goal, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose kindness pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she wrote.

She added that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the mission, such as increased focus on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The computer-piloted spacecraft launched from its launch site in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that passed the Kármán line of space.

The group of women also comprised leaders in multiple disciplines.

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