Space Traveler Discloses Depression After Deluge of Harassment After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

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

The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a social media post, describing a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the days following the journey.

She portrayed the news reports and online discourse as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in women's health research and performed experiments during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her scientific research and years of training to the personal milestone of her heritage – was buried under the tide of misogyny.

She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for survivors of assault.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.

Finding Solid Ground

Months following reaching space, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She concluded that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had come out of the mission, such as increased focus on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

The Historic Journey

The computer-piloted spacecraft lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that exceeded the Kármán line of outer space.

The diverse crew also included experts in various fields.

The enterprise behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a well-known tech mogul.