Space Traveler Discloses Emotional Distress After ‘Tsunami of Harassment Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also included well-known figures.

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

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a public message, describing a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the days following the flight.

She portrayed the news reports and online discourse as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and performed experiments during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her scientific research and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her roots – was buried under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.

Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose support helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.

She added that even with the backlash, important benefits had emerged from the flight, such as increased focus on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that passed the edge of space.

The group of women also comprised experts in multiple disciplines.

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