Astronaut Shares Mental Health Struggle After Deluge of Backlash Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also featured high-profile passengers.

The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a public message, referring to a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the days following the journey.

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

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she revealed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in women's health research and performed experiments during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her studies and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her heritage – was overshadowed under the tide of gendered attacks.

She is best known for her pioneering work protecting the rights of survivors of assault.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after an attack during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

Finding Solid Ground

Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose kindness helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.

She added that despite the negativity, important benefits had resulted from the mission, such as spotlight on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The self-operating New Shepard rocket departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The diverse crew also featured accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.

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