Astronaut Shares Emotional Distress Following ‘Tsunami of Harassment After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

The 34-year-old activist – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in the spring, which also featured well-known figures.

The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a social media post, referring to a phone call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the journey.

She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“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

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and performed experiments during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her scientific research and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her background – was overshadowed under the avalanche of misogyny.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

Finding Solid Ground

Now, eight months after reaching space, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “You all saved me,” she said.

She added that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had come out of the flight, including elevated attention for her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The fully automated New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the Kármán line of space.

The group of women also comprised experts in multiple disciplines.

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