Astronaut Shares Mental Health Struggle After ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health 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 – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also included high-profile passengers.

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

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, recalling a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the days following the journey.

She characterized 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. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and operated research during the flight, said everything she had worked for – including her lab work and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her roots – was drowned out under the deluge of misogyny.

She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since fulfilling her dream, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose support were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.

She noted that amid the criticism, important benefits had emerged from the flight, such as spotlight on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

The Historic Journey

The computer-piloted spacecraft departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The group of women also featured experts in multiple disciplines.

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