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

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake 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 well-known figures.

The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

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

She portrayed the news reports and online discourse as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she confessed. “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 performed experiments during the mission, said everything she had worked for – from her studies and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her background – was drowned out under the avalanche of misogyny.

She is best known for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after an attack during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

Finding Solid Ground

Months following achieving her goal, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose support pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she said.

She concluded that amid the criticism, considerable good had resulted from the experience, including elevated attention for her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The self-operating New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that passed the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The group of women also comprised accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.

The company behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.