Astronaut Shares Depression After ‘Tsunami of Backlash Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

The 34-year-old activist – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also featured celebrity crewmates.

The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, referring to a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the period after the journey.

She described the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has focused her career on women's health research and performed experiments during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her lab work and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her background – was overshadowed under the avalanche of misogyny.

She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold 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 thanked the followers whose support were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She noted that even with the backlash, considerable good had resulted from the experience, such as increased focus on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The self-operating New Shepard rocket departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that exceeded the Kármán line of space.

The diverse crew also comprised accomplished professionals from different industries.

The venture behind the mission is a private space firm founded by a Amazon founder.