Astronaut Shares Mental Health Struggle Following Wave of Harassment Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her battle with depression after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

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

The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a public message, referring to a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the days following the journey.

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

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

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has focused her career on gynecological science and operated research during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her scientific research and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her background – was overshadowed under the tide of sexist vitriol.

She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of survivors of assault.

Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

A Path to Recovery

In the time since fulfilling her dream, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the supporters whose support helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She noted that despite the negativity, considerable good had emerged from the flight, such as increased focus on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

The self-operating New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The group of women also featured accomplished professionals from various fields.

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