Space Traveler Reveals Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse 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 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also featured celebrity crewmates.

The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, referring to a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the days following the flight.

She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction 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

The researcher, who has focused her career on female health science and conducted tests during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her scientific research and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her heritage – was overshadowed under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.

Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after an attack during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following reaching space, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose kindness pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.

She noted that amid the criticism, considerable good had come out of the experience, including elevated attention for her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The self-operating spacecraft departed Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The group of women also featured experts in various fields.

The venture behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company established by a well-known tech mogul.