Space Traveler Discloses Mental Health Struggle After Deluge of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in the spring, which also carried high-profile passengers.

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

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, recalling a phone call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the flight.

She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction 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 revealed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has focused her career on women's health research and conducted tests during the flight, said everything she had worked for – including her studies and years of training to the symbolic importance of her roots – was drowned out under the tide of gendered attacks.

She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after reaching space, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the supporters whose support helped save her. “You all saved me,” she said.

She added that despite the negativity, important benefits had resulted from the flight, including spotlight on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

The fully automated spacecraft departed Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that passed the edge of space.

The diverse crew also included leaders in various fields.

The venture behind the mission is a private space firm established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.