Astronaut Reveals Depression Following Wave of Backlash Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her battle with depression after enduring 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 short-duration mission in the spring, which also carried high-profile passengers.

The mission was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a online statement, describing a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the period after the flight.

She described the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she revealed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in women's health research and performed experiments 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 misogyny.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights 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

In the time since fulfilling her dream, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the supporters whose support pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she said.

She noted that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the flight, such as increased focus on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The fully automated spacecraft departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the Kármán line of space.

The group of women also included leaders in various fields.

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