Space Traveler Reveals Emotional Distress In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her battle with depression after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also featured celebrity crewmates.

The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, recalling a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the flight.

She characterized the news reports and online discourse as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to female health science and performed experiments during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her scientific research and years of training to the personal milestone of her background – was buried under the tide of misogyny.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for survivors of assault.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following achieving her goal, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose kindness pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she said.

She concluded that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the mission, including spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The self-operating spacecraft launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that passed the edge of space.

The diverse crew also included leaders in various fields.

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