Astronaut Reveals Mental Health Struggle After Wave of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also featured well-known figures.

The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, describing a phone call from a fellow crew member in the period after the journey.

She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“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.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to female health science and operated research during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her studies and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her roots – was overshadowed under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

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

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

Finding Solid Ground

Now, eight months after reaching space, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the supporters whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “You all saved me,” she wrote.

She noted that despite the negativity, important benefits had emerged from the mission, such as elevated attention for her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

The computer-piloted spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The diverse crew also included accomplished professionals from various fields.

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