Astronaut Reveals Mental Health Struggle After Deluge of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

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

The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, describing a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the period after the flight.

She described 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 confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has conducted studies in women's health research and performed experiments during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her scientific research and astronaut training to the historic significance of her roots – was overshadowed under the deluge of gendered attacks.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.

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

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following fulfilling her dream, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose support were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she said.

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

Flight Details

The self-operating New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that passed the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The team of pioneers also featured accomplished professionals from various fields.

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