Space Traveler Discloses Depression Following Deluge of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath 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 earlier this year, which also carried well-known figures.

The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, referring to a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the period after the landing.

She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

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

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and performed experiments during the mission, said everything she had worked for – from her scientific research and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her heritage – was overshadowed under the deluge of gendered attacks.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of survivors of assault.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after an attack during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following achieving her goal, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose support were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.

She concluded that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the mission, including elevated attention for her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

About the Mission

The self-operating spacecraft lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that crossed the edge of space.

The team of pioneers also featured experts in different industries.

The company behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company established by a Amazon founder.