Astronaut Shares Mental Health Struggle Following Deluge of Harassment After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in the spring, which also carried high-profile passengers.

The mission was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, describing a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the period after the flight.

She described the news reports and online discourse as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has conducted studies in women's health research and operated research during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her scientific research and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her roots – was drowned out under the tide of misogyny.

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

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after an attack during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.

Finding Solid Ground

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the supporters whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She noted that even with the backlash, important benefits had come out of the flight, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

Flight Details

The self-operating New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that passed the Kármán line of space.

The diverse crew also featured accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.

The venture behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a well-known tech mogul.