Astronaut Shares Depression Following Wave of Backlash After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her battle with depression after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also featured well-known figures.

The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who became 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 public message, referring to a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the days following the flight.

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 revealed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

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 studies and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her background – was overshadowed under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

She is best known for her pioneering work fighting for justice for survivors of assault.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after an attack during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

Finding Solid Ground

Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the well-wishers whose support were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.

She noted that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had come out of the flight, including elevated attention for her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The self-operating spacecraft lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The team of pioneers also included leaders in different industries.

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