Space Traveler Discloses Depression Following ‘Tsunami of Backlash Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after facing a relentless barrage of criticism 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 earlier this year, which also included well-known figures.

The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a online statement, referring to a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the period after the landing.

She described the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on women's health research and conducted tests during the flight, said everything she had worked for – including her lab work and astronaut training to the historic significance of her background – was overshadowed under the tide of misogyny.

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 surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

Finding Solid Ground

Now, eight months after reaching space, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.

She noted that despite the negativity, important benefits had come out of the mission, including elevated attention for her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The self-operating New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that passed the Kármán line of outer space.

The group of women also comprised experts in different industries.

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