Astronaut Reveals Emotional Distress In the Wake of Wave of Backlash Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding 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 – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also included high-profile passengers.

The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

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

She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy 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.”

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has conducted studies in female health science and performed experiments during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her lab work and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her background – was overshadowed under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.

Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after an attack during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following achieving her goal, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the well-wishers whose kindness pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.

She added that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the flight, such as spotlight on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The fully automated spacecraft departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that passed the edge of outer space.

The group of women also featured experts in various fields.

The venture behind the mission is a private space firm founded by a well-known tech mogul.