Astronaut Shares Depression After ‘Tsunami of Backlash Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in the spring, which also included high-profile passengers.

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

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a social media post, recalling 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 confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on women's health research and conducted tests during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her scientific research and years of training to the symbolic importance of her background – was drowned out under the avalanche of misogyny.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.

Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after an attack during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

Finding Solid Ground

Months following reaching space, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the followers whose support pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.

She noted that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had come out of the experience, such as increased focus on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

The Historic Journey

The fully automated spacecraft launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that crossed the Kármán line of space.

The diverse crew also featured leaders in different industries.

The enterprise behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company established by a well-known tech mogul.