Astronaut Discloses Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Deluge of Online Abuse Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her battle with depression after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

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

The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, recalling a check-in call from a mission companion in the days following the landing.

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

“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.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and operated research during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her scientific research and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was overshadowed under the deluge of misogyny.

She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of survivors of assault.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since fulfilling her dream, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose support were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she said.

She added that even with the backlash, considerable good had emerged from the mission, such as elevated attention for her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that passed the Kármán line of space.

The diverse crew also featured accomplished professionals from different industries.

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