Astronaut Discloses Depression Following Deluge of Backlash Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after enduring 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 researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also featured celebrity crewmates.

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

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a social media post, referring to a phone call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the journey.

She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and operated research during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her lab work and years of training to the historic significance of her roots – was drowned out under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

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

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

Finding Solid Ground

In the time since fulfilling her dream, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose support pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She concluded that despite the negativity, considerable good had resulted from the experience, such as increased focus on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

About the Mission

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the edge of space.

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

The venture behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company established by a Amazon founder.