Space Traveler Discloses Mental Health Struggle Following ‘Tsunami of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her battle with depression after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake 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 in the spring, which also included well-known figures.

The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a social media post, describing a phone call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the flight.

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

“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.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to female health science and performed experiments during the mission, said everything she had worked for – including her scientific research and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her background – was overshadowed under the tide of sexist vitriol.

She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for survivors of assault.

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

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose kindness pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.

She concluded that despite the negativity, considerable good had resulted from the mission, including increased focus on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted spacecraft launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The group of women also included accomplished professionals from different industries.

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