Space Traveler Reveals Mental Health Struggle Following Wave of Backlash After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also featured celebrity crewmates.

The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a public message, referring to a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the period after the landing.

She described the news reports and online discourse as an unprecedented psychological assault.

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

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in women's health research and operated research during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her scientific research and astronaut training to the historic significance of her roots – was drowned out under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

She is best known for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

Finding Solid Ground

In the time since reaching space, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the followers whose support helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.

She noted that amid the criticism, important benefits had emerged from the flight, such as spotlight on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

The computer-piloted spacecraft launched from its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that passed the edge of outer space.

The diverse crew also comprised accomplished professionals from various fields.

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