Space Traveler Shares Emotional Distress In the Wake of Deluge of Harassment Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also featured high-profile passengers.

The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.

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

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a public message, describing a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the aftermath of the flight.

She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and performed experiments during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her lab work and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her roots – was drowned out under the tide of sexist vitriol.

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

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

Finding Solid Ground

In the time since achieving her goal, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the supporters whose support were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.

She added that amid the criticism, important benefits had resulted from the flight, such as increased focus on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

The Historic Journey

The computer-piloted spacecraft departed Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the edge of space.

The diverse crew also included accomplished professionals from different industries.

The company behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.