Astronaut Shares Mental Health Struggle Following Deluge of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also carried well-known figures.

The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, recalling a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the period after the journey.

She described the news reports and online discourse as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in female health science and conducted tests during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her scientific research and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was buried under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is widely recognized for her pioneering work fighting for justice for survivors of assault.

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

A Path to Recovery

In the time since reaching space, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the supporters whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She concluded that despite the negativity, important benefits had resulted from the flight, including increased focus on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in April, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the Kármán line of space.

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

The company behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company launched by a Amazon founder.