Astronaut Reveals Depression Following Deluge of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in April, 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 ordeal, the astronaut, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, 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, describing a check-in call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the flight.

She characterized the news reports and online discourse as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and conducted tests during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her studies and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was overshadowed under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of survivors of assault.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.

Finding Solid Ground

Months following fulfilling her dream, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.

She noted that amid the criticism, considerable good had come out of the experience, including spotlight on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The team of pioneers also included experts in different industries.

The venture behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a Amazon founder.