Astronaut Reveals Depression In the Wake of Deluge of Backlash After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in the spring, which also featured well-known figures.

The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

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

She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she revealed. “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 gynecological science and performed experiments during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her lab work and years of training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was drowned out under the tide of misogyny.

She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of survivors of assault.

Her own goal of reaching space was paused after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the supporters whose kindness pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She concluded that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the flight, including elevated attention for her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The self-operating spacecraft lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The team of pioneers also featured experts in various fields.

The enterprise behind the flight is a private space firm launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.