Astronaut Reveals Mental Health Struggle Following Wave of Backlash Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her battle with depression after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also included high-profile passengers.

The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, referring to a check-in call from a mission companion in the period after the flight.

She characterized the news reports and online discourse as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she revealed. “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 flight, said every professional achievement – including her studies and astronaut training to the historic significance of her background – was buried under the tide of sexist vitriol.

She is best known for her pioneering work fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.

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

Finding Solid Ground

In the time since achieving her goal, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the followers whose kindness were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She added that amid the criticism, considerable good had come out of the mission, such as spotlight on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

Flight Details

The fully automated spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The group of women also featured accomplished professionals from different industries.

The company behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.