Space Traveler Discloses Mental Health Struggle Following Deluge of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also included celebrity crewmates.

The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, recalling a phone call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the flight.

She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

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

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her studies and astronaut training to the historic significance of her heritage – was drowned out under the tide of misogyny.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.

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

Finding Solid Ground

In the time since fulfilling her dream, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose support pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she said.

She noted that even with the backlash, important benefits had come out of the experience, such as elevated attention for her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The computer-piloted spacecraft launched from its launch site in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the Kármán line of space.

The diverse crew also included experts in different industries.

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