Astronaut Reveals Depression In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Harassment Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her battle with depression after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also included celebrity crewmates.

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

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, describing a phone call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the landing.

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

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she revealed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on women's health research and conducted tests during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her studies and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her roots – was drowned out under the tide of sexist vitriol.

She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since achieving her goal, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the followers whose kindness helped save her. “You all saved me,” she wrote.

She noted that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had come out of the mission, including increased focus on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The self-operating spacecraft launched from Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The team of pioneers also comprised accomplished professionals from different industries.

The venture behind the mission is a private space firm founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.