Space Traveler Discloses Depression After ‘Tsunami of Harassment After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after facing 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 brief journey to space in the spring, which also featured high-profile passengers.

The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a social media post, describing a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the period after the flight.

She described the news reports and online discourse 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.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and conducted tests during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her lab work and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her background – was overshadowed under the deluge 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 paused after an attack during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.

A Path to Recovery

Months following fulfilling her dream, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose support helped save her. “You all saved me,” she wrote.

She added that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had come out of the flight, including increased focus on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The fully automated spacecraft launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that passed the Kármán line of outer space.

The diverse crew also featured leaders in multiple disciplines.

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