Astronaut Shares Mental Health Struggle Following ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also included celebrity crewmates.

The mission was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a social media post, describing a phone call from a mission companion in the days following the flight.

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

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she revealed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in female health science and conducted tests during the mission, said everything she had worked for – including her lab work and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her roots – was drowned out under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is best known for her pioneering work fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since fulfilling her dream, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the followers whose kindness helped save her. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She added that amid the criticism, considerable good had resulted from the mission, including spotlight on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

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

The group of women also comprised leaders in multiple disciplines.

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