Space Traveler Discloses Depression Following Deluge of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

The 34-year-old activist – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also carried high-profile passengers.

The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.

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

“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a online statement, recalling a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the landing.

She described the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

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

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in women's health research and operated research during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her studies and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her heritage – was drowned out under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for survivors of assault.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

Finding Solid Ground

Now, eight months after reaching space, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.

She noted that amid the criticism, considerable good had come out of the mission, including elevated attention for her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

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

The diverse crew also comprised accomplished professionals from different industries.

The company behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.