Space Traveler Shares Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Backlash Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also carried high-profile passengers.

The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, recalling a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the days following the journey.

She described the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and operated research during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her scientific research and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her background – was drowned out under the tide of sexist vitriol.

She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.

Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following reaching space, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose support helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.

She added that despite the negativity, considerable good had come out of the flight, such as elevated attention for her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

The fully automated New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that passed the edge of outer space.

The group of women also featured leaders in multiple disciplines.

The venture behind the flight is a private space firm established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.