Astronaut Shares Depression Following Wave of Backlash After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also carried high-profile passengers.

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

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a public message, recalling a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the days following the flight.

She described the press attention and digital reaction as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

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

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and conducted tests during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her lab work and years of training to the personal milestone of her heritage – was drowned out under the tide of misogyny.

She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.

Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after an attack during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following achieving her goal, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose kindness helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.

She noted that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had come out of the experience, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted spacecraft launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the edge of space.

The diverse crew also featured experts in multiple disciplines.

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