Space Traveler Shares Depression After Deluge of Backlash Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also featured celebrity crewmates.

The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, describing a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the days following the landing.

She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“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

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on women's health research and performed experiments during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her scientific research and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her roots – was overshadowed under the avalanche of misogyny.

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

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.

Finding Solid Ground

Months following reaching space, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the supporters whose support pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she said.

She noted that despite the negativity, considerable good had come out of the flight, including elevated attention for her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The self-operating New Shepard rocket departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of space.

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

The company behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company established by a Amazon founder.