Space Traveler Discloses Mental Health Struggle Following ‘Tsunami of Harassment Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also featured celebrity crewmates.

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

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“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 days following the flight.

She characterized the news reports and online discourse as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she revealed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to female health science and performed experiments during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her studies and years of training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was drowned out under the tide of gendered attacks.

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

Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after an attack during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.

A Path to Recovery

Months following fulfilling her dream, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose support were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.

She noted that even with the backlash, considerable good had come out of the mission, such as increased focus on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The self-operating New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the Kármán line of space.

The group of women also included experts in different industries.

The company behind the flight is a private space firm established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.