Space Traveler Reveals Emotional Distress In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse 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 scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also included well-known figures.

The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, describing a check-in call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the journey.

She described the news reports and online discourse as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she revealed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in female health science and performed experiments during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her scientific research and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her heritage – was drowned out under the deluge of misogyny.

She is best known for her pioneering work championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.

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

A Path to Recovery

In the time since reaching space, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose kindness were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She added that amid the criticism, considerable good had come out of the flight, including increased focus on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The self-operating New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that passed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The group of women also featured accomplished professionals from various fields.

The company behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.