Space Traveler Shares Depression After ‘Tsunami of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also included high-profile passengers.

The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, referring to a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the days following the flight.

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

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has focused her career on gynecological science and operated research during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her lab work and years of training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was buried under the deluge of gendered attacks.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since achieving her goal, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the supporters whose kindness were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she wrote.

She added that amid the criticism, important benefits had resulted from the flight, including increased focus on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted spacecraft lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the Kármán line of space.

The team of pioneers also featured experts in multiple disciplines.

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