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

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also featured high-profile passengers.

The mission was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a public message, referring to a phone call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the landing.

She described the news reports and online discourse as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said everything she had worked for – including her lab work and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her roots – was buried under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is widely recognized for her pioneering work fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

Finding Solid Ground

Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the followers whose support were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she said.

She added that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the mission, including elevated attention for her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

The Historic Journey

The fully automated spacecraft lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that passed the edge of outer space.

The team of pioneers also featured leaders in various fields.

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