Space Traveler Discloses Emotional Distress In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” 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 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also featured celebrity crewmates.

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

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, describing a phone call from a fellow crew member in the period after the flight.

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

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on women's health research and conducted tests during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her lab work and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her background – was drowned out under the tide of misogyny.

She is best known for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

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

Finding Solid Ground

In the time since fulfilling her dream, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the followers whose support pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.

She noted that despite the negativity, important benefits had emerged from the mission, including spotlight on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

About the Mission

The self-operating New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that passed the edge of space.

The diverse crew also included experts in different industries.

The enterprise behind the mission is a private space firm founded by a Amazon founder.