Space Traveler Discloses Emotional Distress After Deluge of Online Abuse After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her battle with depression after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized 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 challenged its value and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a public message, describing a phone call from a mission companion in the days following the landing.

She described the press attention and digital reaction as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“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

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her lab work and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her roots – was overshadowed under the tide of sexist vitriol.

She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

A Path to Recovery

Months following reaching space, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.

She concluded that amid the criticism, considerable good had come out of the mission, including increased focus on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The fully automated New Shepard rocket departed Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that passed the edge of outer space.

The team of pioneers also featured experts in multiple disciplines.

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