Space Traveler Shares Emotional Distress In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Backlash Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also carried well-known figures.

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

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, referring to a phone call from a fellow crew member 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”.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she confessed. “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 female health science and performed experiments during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her studies and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her roots – was drowned out under the deluge of gendered attacks.

She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after an attack during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.

Finding Solid Ground

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the supporters whose support were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she said.

She noted that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had come out of the mission, such as spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The fully automated spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that exceeded the edge of outer space.

The group of women also featured experts in multiple disciplines.

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