Space Traveler Shares Depression In the Wake of Deluge of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

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 included high-profile passengers.

The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a public message, referring to a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the period after the flight.

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

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in women's health research and operated research during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her scientific research and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was drowned out under the deluge of misogyny.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following reaching space, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the supporters whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.

She noted that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had come out of the mission, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

Flight Details

The fully automated spacecraft departed its launch site in April, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The team of pioneers also featured experts in different industries.

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