Space Traveler Discloses Depression After Wave of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her battle with depression after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also included high-profile passengers.

The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who became 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,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, recalling a phone call from a mission companion in the days following the flight.

She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has focused her career on gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her lab work and years of training to the personal milestone of her heritage – was drowned out under the tide of misogyny.

She is best known for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of survivors of assault.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

A Path to Recovery

Months following achieving her goal, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose support pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she said.

She concluded that amid the criticism, important benefits had resulted from the mission, including elevated attention for her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

The Historic Journey

The self-operating spacecraft launched from Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The group of women also featured experts in multiple disciplines.

The company behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company founded by a Amazon founder.