Space Traveler Shares Mental Health Struggle After Wave of Online Abuse After Historic Trip
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also carried well-known figures.
The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a public message, recalling a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the days following the landing.
She described 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 wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
The researcher, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and conducted tests during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her lab work and years of training to the personal milestone of her roots – was drowned out under the avalanche of gendered attacks.
She is best known for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of survivors of assault.
Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after an attack during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
Finding Solid Ground
Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the supporters whose support pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she wrote.
She concluded that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the mission, including spotlight on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
The Historic Journey
The fully automated New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the Kármán line of outer space.
The diverse crew also featured experts in different industries.
The company behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
