Space Traveler Reveals Depression After Deluge of Backlash Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her battle with depression after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

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

The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a public message, referring to a phone call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the landing.

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

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she revealed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on female health science and conducted tests during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her lab work and astronaut training to the historic significance of her background – was buried under the avalanche of misogyny.

She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose kindness pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She added that amid the criticism, important benefits had come out of the mission, such as spotlight on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

The Historic Journey

The self-operating New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The group of women also featured accomplished professionals from different industries.

The enterprise behind the flight is a private space firm founded by a well-known tech mogul.