Astronaut Discloses Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Backlash Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also carried celebrity crewmates.

The mission was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who became 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 phone call from a fellow crew member in the days following the flight.

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

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has focused her career on gynecological science and performed experiments during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her lab work and years of training to the symbolic importance of her roots – was drowned out under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

Finding Solid Ground

In the time since fulfilling her dream, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the followers whose support were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she said.

She noted that despite the negativity, important benefits had come out of the flight, including elevated attention for her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The self-operating spacecraft launched from Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that crossed the Kármán line of space.

The diverse crew also comprised leaders in multiple disciplines.

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