Astronaut Reveals Mental Health Struggle Following Deluge of Online Abuse After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also included celebrity crewmates.

The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, referring to a check-in call from a mission companion in the period after the landing.

She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she revealed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has conducted studies in women's health research and conducted tests during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her lab work and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was buried under the tide of gendered attacks.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after an attack during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

Finding Solid Ground

Months following achieving her goal, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she said.

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

About the Mission

The computer-piloted spacecraft launched from its launch site in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that passed the Kármán line of outer space.

The group of women also included experts in different industries.

The company behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company launched by a well-known tech mogul.