Space Traveler Reveals Emotional Distress In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

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

The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, describing a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the days following the flight.

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

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

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has focused her career on gynecological science and operated research during the mission, said every professional achievement – including her scientific research and astronaut training to the historic significance of her background – was drowned out under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since fulfilling her dream, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the supporters whose support helped save her. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She concluded that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the experience, including increased focus on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that passed the Kármán line of outer space.

The group of women also comprised accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.

The venture behind the mission is a private space firm established by a Amazon founder.