Space Traveler Discloses Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Deluge of Harassment Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in the spring, which also featured celebrity crewmates.

The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, recalling a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the period after the flight.

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

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and performed experiments during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her studies and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her roots – was drowned out under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.

Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.

She concluded that even with the backlash, important benefits had resulted from the flight, including spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The self-operating spacecraft launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that crossed the edge of outer space.

The diverse crew also featured experts in multiple disciplines.

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