Astronaut Discloses Depression Following Deluge of Harassment Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also included celebrity crewmates.

The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a online statement, recalling a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the period after the journey.

She characterized the press attention and digital reaction as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” 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 female health science and conducted tests during the mission, said every professional achievement – including her lab work and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her heritage – was overshadowed under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

She is best known for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following fulfilling her dream, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the followers whose support pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she wrote.

She added that amid the criticism, considerable good had come out of the flight, such as spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The fully automated New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that exceeded the Kármán line of outer space.

The diverse crew also comprised accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.

The enterprise behind the flight is a private space firm launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.