Astronaut Discloses Emotional Distress In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Backlash Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also featured high-profile passengers.

The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who became 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,” she recounted in a social media post, describing a check-in call from a mission companion in the period after the flight.

She described the press attention and digital reaction as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and operated research during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her scientific research and years of training to the personal milestone of her heritage – was drowned out under the tide of sexist vitriol.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after an attack during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

A Path to Recovery

Months following achieving her goal, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the followers whose kindness pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She noted that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the experience, such as spotlight on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The self-operating spacecraft departed its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that exceeded the edge of space.

The team of pioneers also featured leaders in different industries.

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