Astronaut Discloses Mental Health Struggle After Deluge of Harassment Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

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

The mission was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, recalling a phone call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the journey.

She portrayed 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 confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and performed experiments during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her lab work and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her roots – was drowned out under the deluge of misogyny.

She is best known for her pioneering work protecting the rights of survivors of assault.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the supporters whose kindness pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she said.

She concluded that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had come out of the flight, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The self-operating New Shepard rocket lifted off 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 leaders in various fields.

The enterprise behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company founded by a Amazon founder.