Astronaut Shares Emotional Distress After Wave of Online Abuse Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her battle with depression after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also featured well-known figures.

The mission was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, recalling a phone call from a fellow crew member in the days following the journey.

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

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

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has focused her career on gynecological science and operated research during the mission, said everything she had worked for – from her scientific research and astronaut training to the historic significance of her roots – was drowned out under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.

Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after an attack during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she said.

She noted that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the experience, including increased focus on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

The Historic Journey

The fully automated spacecraft launched from Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The team of pioneers also included leaders in different industries.

The company behind the mission is a private space firm established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.