Astronaut Discloses Mental Health Struggle After Deluge of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after facing a massive wave of online abuse 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 short-duration mission earlier this year, which also featured high-profile passengers.

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

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

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, describing a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the aftermath of the flight.

She portrayed 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 confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and operated research during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her scientific research and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her heritage – was drowned out under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for survivors of assault.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.

Finding Solid Ground

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose support were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She noted that amid the criticism, considerable good had resulted from the mission, such as spotlight on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

The Historic Journey

The self-operating spacecraft departed its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that passed the Kármán line of space.

The team of pioneers also featured leaders in multiple disciplines.

The enterprise behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.