Astronaut Reveals Mental Health Struggle Following ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also carried high-profile passengers.

The mission was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, recalling a phone call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the landing.

She characterized the press attention and digital reaction as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

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

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on female health science and conducted tests during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her scientific research and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her roots – was buried under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is widely recognized for her pioneering work championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after reaching space, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the followers whose kindness helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.

She concluded that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had come out of the flight, including elevated attention for her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

Flight Details

The self-operating spacecraft launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that passed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The diverse crew also included accomplished professionals from various fields.

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