Space Traveler Discloses Depression Following Deluge of Backlash Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also featured high-profile passengers.

The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, recalling a phone call from a mission companion in the days following the journey.

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

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she revealed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to female health science and operated research during the flight, said everything she had worked for – including her studies and astronaut training to the historic significance of her heritage – was buried under the deluge of gendered attacks.

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

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

Finding Solid Ground

In the time since achieving her goal, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose kindness helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she said.

She concluded that despite the negativity, considerable good had emerged from the experience, including elevated attention for her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The fully automated New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that passed the Kármán line of space.

The team of pioneers also featured accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.

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