Astronaut Shares Mental Health Struggle Following Wave of Online Abuse Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also featured high-profile passengers.

The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, recalling a phone call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the landing.

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

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

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has conducted studies in female health science and operated research during the flight, said everything she had worked for – including her scientific research and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her roots – was drowned out under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of survivors of assault.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after reaching space, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the followers whose support were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.

She added that amid the criticism, considerable good had resulted from the experience, such as elevated attention for her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The self-operating New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the edge of space.

The team of pioneers also included leaders in multiple disciplines.

The company behind the mission is a private space firm founded by a Amazon founder.