Astronaut Shares Depression Following Wave of Online Abuse Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after facing a relentless barrage of criticism 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 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also included celebrity crewmates.

The mission was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, recalling a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the days following the landing.

She described the press attention and digital reaction as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she revealed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has focused her career on women's health research and operated research during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her scientific research and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her roots – was overshadowed under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is best known for her pioneering work protecting the rights of survivors of assault.

Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

Finding Solid Ground

In the time since reaching space, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.

She added that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the flight, including increased focus on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The fully automated New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in April, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that passed the Kármán line of space.

The team of pioneers also featured accomplished professionals from various fields.

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