Space Traveler Shares Emotional Distress Following ‘Tsunami of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also included celebrity crewmates.

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

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, describing a check-in call from a mission companion in the period after the landing.

She characterized the news reports and online discourse as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to female health science and performed experiments during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her lab work and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her heritage – was overshadowed under the deluge of gendered attacks.

She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for survivors of assault.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after an attack during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since achieving her goal, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the followers whose support pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she said.

She added that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the experience, such as spotlight on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

The Historic Journey

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that crossed the Kármán line of space.

The team of pioneers also comprised accomplished professionals from different industries.

The enterprise behind the flight is a private space firm established by a well-known tech mogul.