Space Traveler Reveals Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Wave of Online Abuse Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also carried celebrity crewmates.

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

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a public message, recalling a phone call from a mission companion in the days following the journey.

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

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on women's health research and operated research during the flight, said everything she had worked for – including her scientific research and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was buried under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following achieving her goal, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She noted that despite the negativity, considerable good had emerged from the experience, such as spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket departed Texas in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that crossed the edge of outer space.

The diverse crew also included accomplished professionals from various fields.

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