Astronaut Reveals Emotional Distress After Wave of Backlash After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also included well-known figures.

The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a social media post, recalling a check-in call from a mission companion in the period after the flight.

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

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she revealed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and operated research during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her scientific research and astronaut training to the historic significance of her heritage – was buried under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of survivors of assault.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since achieving her goal, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the followers whose support helped save her. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She noted that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the experience, including increased focus on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that passed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The diverse crew also included accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.

The venture behind the flight is a private space firm launched by a well-known tech mogul.