Astronaut Discloses Emotional Distress In the Wake of Deluge of Backlash After Historic Trip

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

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

The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, referring to a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the journey.

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

“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.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has focused her career on gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her lab work and years of training to the personal milestone of her roots – was buried under the tide of gendered attacks.

She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work championing the cause of survivors of assault.

Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.

Finding Solid Ground

Months following achieving her goal, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the supporters whose kindness were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she said.

She concluded that despite the negativity, important benefits had resulted from the flight, including spotlight on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

The Historic Journey

The fully automated spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the edge of outer space.

The group of women also included experts in multiple disciplines.

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