Space Traveler Discloses Mental Health Struggle After Wave of Online Abuse After Historic Trip
A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her battle with depression after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also carried high-profile passengers.
The mission was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, describing a phone call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the flight.
She characterized the press attention and digital reaction as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
The researcher, who has dedicated her work to female health science and conducted tests during the mission, said everything she had worked for – including her studies and years of training to the personal milestone of her heritage – was buried under the avalanche of misogyny.
She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
A Path to Recovery
Months following achieving her goal, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she wrote.
She concluded that even with the backlash, considerable good had come out of the flight, including increased focus on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.
Flight Details
The fully automated New Shepard rocket departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that crossed the edge of outer space.
The team of pioneers also comprised accomplished professionals from different industries.
The enterprise behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
