Space Traveler Shares Depression In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Backlash After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her battle with depression after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also carried celebrity crewmates.

The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a online statement, recalling a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the period after the journey.

She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she revealed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and conducted tests during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her studies and astronaut training to the historic significance of her heritage – was buried under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for survivors of assault.

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

A Path to Recovery

In the time since reaching space, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she said.

She added that despite the negativity, considerable good had emerged from the experience, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

The Historic Journey

The fully automated New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the Kármán line of outer space.

The group of women also comprised experts in different industries.

The enterprise behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company founded by a well-known tech mogul.