Space Traveler Discloses Depression After Wave of Harassment After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also carried celebrity crewmates.

The mission was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, describing a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the period after the journey.

She described the news reports and online discourse as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and conducted tests during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her studies and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her background – was drowned out under the avalanche of misogyny.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of survivors of assault.

Her own goal of reaching space was paused 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 expressed gratitude the followers whose kindness were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.

She added that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the mission, such as spotlight on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

Flight Details

The self-operating 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 space.

The team of pioneers also comprised leaders in multiple disciplines.

The enterprise behind the flight is a private space firm established by a Amazon founder.