Space Traveler Reveals Mental Health Struggle After Deluge of Harassment After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also featured well-known figures.

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

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, describing a phone call from a mission companion in the period after the landing.

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

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in female health science and performed experiments during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her scientific research and years of training to the personal milestone of her roots – was drowned out under the tide of gendered attacks.

She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

Her own goal of reaching space was paused after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.

Finding Solid Ground

Months following achieving her goal, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she wrote.

She noted that despite the negativity, important benefits had emerged from the flight, such as increased focus on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The fully automated New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The diverse crew also comprised leaders in various fields.

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