Space Traveler Shares Emotional Distress In the Wake of Deluge of Backlash Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after facing a relentless barrage of criticism 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 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also included well-known figures.

The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.

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

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

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to female health science and operated research during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her scientific research and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her roots – was buried under the tide of misogyny.

She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of survivors of assault.

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

A Path to Recovery

In the time since reaching space, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose support helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.

She added that even with the backlash, considerable good had emerged from the experience, such as elevated attention for her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The fully automated spacecraft launched from Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that exceeded the edge of outer space.

The team of pioneers also featured experts in multiple disciplines.

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