Space Traveler Shares Emotional Distress After Wave of Backlash After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also included celebrity crewmates.

The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a social media post, describing a phone call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the journey.

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

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on gynecological science and operated research during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her scientific research and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her background – was overshadowed under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is best known for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.

Her own goal of reaching space was paused after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

A Path to Recovery

Months following fulfilling her dream, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose support were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she said.

She noted that even with the backlash, important benefits had emerged from the flight, including elevated attention for her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

The fully automated spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The diverse crew also featured leaders in different industries.

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