Space Traveler Shares Depression In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also carried well-known figures.

The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a public message, describing a phone call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the journey.

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

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on female health science and performed experiments during the mission, said everything she had worked for – from her studies and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her roots – was overshadowed under the avalanche of misogyny.

She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose kindness pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she said.

She concluded that even with the backlash, important benefits had emerged from the mission, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

Flight Details

The self-operating spacecraft departed Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that crossed the edge of outer space.

The group of women also included experts in various fields.

The company behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company founded by a Amazon founder.