Space Traveler Discloses Mental Health Struggle After Wave of Online Abuse Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also carried celebrity crewmates.

The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a public message, describing a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the landing.

She described 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 confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in female health science and operated research during the mission, said everything she had worked for – including her scientific research and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her background – was buried under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.

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

Finding Solid Ground

In the time since fulfilling her dream, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the followers whose support pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.

She concluded that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the flight, such as increased focus on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that crossed the Kármán line of space.

The diverse crew also included experts in multiple disciplines.

The company behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company established by a well-known tech mogul.