Space Traveler Reveals Emotional Distress Following Wave of Online Abuse After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also carried high-profile passengers.

The mission was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, recalling a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the days following the flight.

She characterized the press attention and digital reaction as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and operated research during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her lab work and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her heritage – was drowned out under the deluge of gendered attacks.

She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of survivors of assault.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

Finding Solid Ground

Months following reaching space, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose kindness were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.

She concluded that despite the negativity, considerable good had come out of the experience, such as elevated attention for her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The group of women also featured accomplished professionals from different industries.

The enterprise behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company launched by a well-known tech mogul.