Space Traveler Shares Emotional Distress After Deluge of Backlash After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also included high-profile passengers.

The mission was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

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

She described the press attention and digital reaction as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she revealed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in women's health research and performed experiments during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her scientific research and years of training to the symbolic importance of her roots – was buried under the deluge of gendered attacks.

She is best known for her pioneering work protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.

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

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following achieving her goal, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose support pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she said.

She concluded that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the flight, such as increased focus on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The self-operating spacecraft lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the edge of outer space.

The team of pioneers also featured experts in multiple disciplines.

The enterprise behind the flight is a private space firm founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.