Space Traveler Discloses Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Wave of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also featured well-known figures.

The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, referring to a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the days following the landing.

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

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she revealed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and conducted tests during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her studies and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was buried under the deluge of misogyny.

She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after an attack during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the followers whose kindness were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she said.

She concluded that amid the criticism, important benefits had come out of the experience, including spotlight on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

About the Mission

The self-operating spacecraft launched from Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that exceeded the Kármán line of outer space.

The team of pioneers also featured experts in different industries.

The venture behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company established by a well-known tech mogul.