Astronaut Discloses Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Deluge of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her battle with depression after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also carried high-profile passengers.

The mission was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a public message, referring to a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the period after the landing.

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

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she revealed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and operated research during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her studies and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was overshadowed under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is widely recognized for her pioneering work protecting the rights of survivors of assault.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since reaching space, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the followers whose support pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.

She noted that amid the criticism, considerable good had resulted from the mission, such as elevated attention for her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

Flight Details

The self-operating spacecraft launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the Kármán line of space.

The diverse crew also included accomplished professionals from different industries.

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