Astronaut Shares Mental Health Struggle After Deluge of Harassment After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

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

The mission was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.

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

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, describing a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the days following the flight.

She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

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

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her scientific research and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was overshadowed under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of survivors of assault.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after reaching space, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose kindness were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she said.

She added that despite the negativity, considerable good had resulted from the flight, such as spotlight on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket departed Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that exceeded the edge of space.

The team of pioneers also included experts in various fields.

The enterprise behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.