Astronaut Reveals Depression After Wave of Online Abuse Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her battle with depression after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

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

The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a public message, describing a check-in call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the landing.

She characterized the press attention and digital reaction as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has conducted studies in women's health research and performed experiments during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her lab work and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her background – was overshadowed under the deluge of misogyny.

She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.

A Path to Recovery

Months following achieving her goal, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the followers whose kindness were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she wrote.

She concluded that amid the criticism, considerable good had come out of the flight, including elevated attention for her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

About the Mission

The fully automated spacecraft launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The diverse crew also featured leaders in different industries.

The venture behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company launched by a well-known tech mogul.