Astronaut Reveals Emotional Distress In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Backlash Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath 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 short-duration mission in April, which also featured high-profile passengers.

The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a public message, referring to a phone call from a mission companion in the days following the landing.

She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she revealed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on women's health research and conducted tests during the mission, said everything she had worked for – from her lab work and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her heritage – was buried under the tide of gendered attacks.

She is widely recognized for her pioneering work fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

Her own goal of reaching space was paused after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the supporters whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She concluded that even with the backlash, considerable good had resulted from the flight, such as increased focus on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

The Historic Journey

The fully automated New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that passed the Kármán line of outer space.

The group of women also comprised accomplished professionals from different industries.

The enterprise behind the flight is a private space firm established by a Amazon founder.