Astronaut Reveals Emotional Distress In the Wake of Deluge of Online Abuse Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

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 included celebrity crewmates.

The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, describing a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the days following the landing.

She described 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 wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to female health science and conducted tests during the mission, said everything she had worked for – from her scientific research and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her background – was buried under the deluge of gendered attacks.

She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.

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.

A Path to Recovery

Months following reaching space, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose support helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.

She concluded that amid the criticism, important benefits had come out of the flight, including increased focus on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

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

The team of pioneers also featured accomplished professionals from various fields.

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