Space Traveler Shares Depression In the Wake of Wave of Backlash After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also featured well-known figures.

The mission was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.

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

“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, referring to a phone call from a fellow crew member in the days following the flight.

She described 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 wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has focused her career on women's health research and performed experiments during the flight, said everything she had worked for – including her scientific research and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her background – was drowned out under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.

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

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose support were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She added that despite the negativity, important benefits had emerged from the experience, including elevated attention for her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

About the Mission

The fully automated spacecraft lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the Kármán line of space.

The team of pioneers also comprised experts in different industries.

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