Space Traveler Reveals Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Deluge of Harassment Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her battle with depression after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in the spring, which also included well-known figures.

The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a public message, recalling a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the aftermath of the landing.

She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her scientific research and years of training to the historic significance of her background – was buried under the tide of gendered attacks.

She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work championing the cause of survivors of assault.

Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

A Path to Recovery

In the time since fulfilling her dream, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the followers whose kindness helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.

She noted that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the flight, including increased focus on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

The self-operating spacecraft launched from its launch site in April, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that passed the edge of outer space.

The group of women also included experts in different industries.

The enterprise behind the flight is a private space firm founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.