Astronaut Discloses Mental Health Struggle After Wave of Harassment Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her battle with depression after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also carried high-profile passengers.

The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, describing a phone call from a mission companion in the period after the landing.

She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on female health science and conducted tests during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her studies and astronaut training to the historic significance of her heritage – was buried under the tide of misogyny.

She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

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 supporters whose support helped save her. “You all saved me,” she said.

She noted that despite the negativity, important benefits had resulted from the experience, such as spotlight on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

The self-operating New Shepard rocket departed its launch site in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the Kármán line of space.

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

The company behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company founded by a well-known tech mogul.