Space Traveler Reveals Emotional Distress In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also featured celebrity crewmates.

The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, referring to a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the flight.

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

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and performed experiments during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her studies and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her background – was drowned out under the tide of sexist vitriol.

She is best known for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after an attack during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the well-wishers whose support pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she wrote.

She concluded that amid the criticism, considerable good had resulted from the flight, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

About the Mission

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The diverse crew also featured leaders in multiple disciplines.

The enterprise behind the flight is a private space firm founded by a well-known tech mogul.