Space Traveler Reveals Emotional Distress After Wave of Backlash Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

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

The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a public message, referring to a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the journey.

She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“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.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in women's health research and operated research during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her studies and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her roots – was buried under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

She is best known for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose kindness were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She noted that despite the negativity, important benefits had resulted from the flight, including elevated attention for her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

Flight Details

The fully automated spacecraft departed its launch site in April, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The diverse crew also included experts in various fields.

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