Astronaut Discloses Depression In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

The 34-year-old activist – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in the spring, which also included celebrity crewmates.

The mission was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, recalling a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the period after the journey.

She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in women's health research and performed experiments during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her lab work and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her background – was overshadowed under the tide of sexist vitriol.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for survivors of assault.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.

Finding Solid Ground

Months following reaching space, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.

She concluded that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the mission, including spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted spacecraft lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The team of pioneers also featured experts in multiple disciplines.

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