Space Traveler Discloses Mental Health Struggle Following ‘Tsunami of Backlash After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath 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 earlier this year, which also carried celebrity crewmates.

The mission was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, recalling a phone call from a mission companion in the days following the landing.

She described the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“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.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in female health science and performed experiments during the mission, said every professional achievement – including her lab work and years of training to the historic significance of her heritage – was buried under the tide of sexist vitriol.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.

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

Finding Solid Ground

Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the followers whose support helped save her. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She noted that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the flight, including increased focus on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The fully automated New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that crossed the Kármán line of outer space.

The diverse crew also included accomplished professionals from different industries.

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