Astronaut Reveals Depression In the Wake of Deluge of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism 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 earlier this year, which also carried celebrity crewmates.

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

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, referring to a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the flight.

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

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she revealed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and conducted tests during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her lab work and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her background – was buried under the tide of gendered attacks.

She is best known for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after an attack during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

Finding Solid Ground

In the time since reaching space, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the followers whose support pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She added that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the flight, including increased focus on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

About the Mission

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that crossed the Kármán line of outer space.

The group of women also included leaders in different industries.

The venture behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company founded by a Amazon founder.