Astronaut Discloses Emotional Distress After Deluge of Harassment Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health 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 the spring, which also carried high-profile passengers.

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

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a social media post, describing a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the period after the flight.

She described the press attention and digital reaction as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“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.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to female health science and conducted tests during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her scientific research and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her background – was drowned out under the avalanche of misogyny.

She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.

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

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since reaching space, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the supporters whose kindness pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.

She concluded that amid the criticism, considerable good had emerged from the mission, including elevated attention for her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket departed Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that crossed the edge of space.

The group of women also included accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.

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