Space Traveler Shares Depression In the Wake of Wave of Backlash Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

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

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

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, recalling a phone call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the flight.

She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction as an unprecedented psychological assault.

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

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in women's health research and conducted tests during the flight, said everything she had worked for – including her lab work and astronaut training to the historic significance of her background – was drowned out under the tide of gendered attacks.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of survivors of assault.

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

Finding Solid Ground

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the followers whose kindness were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.

She noted that amid the criticism, considerable good had come out of the flight, such as spotlight on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

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

The diverse crew also included accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.

The venture behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company founded by a Amazon founder.