Astronaut Shares Depression After ‘Tsunami of Backlash Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in the spring, which also featured celebrity crewmates.

The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, referring to a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the days following the flight.

She described 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 revealed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on women's health research and conducted tests during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her scientific research and years of training to the symbolic importance of her roots – was buried under the tide of sexist vitriol.

She is best known for her pioneering work protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the followers whose support helped save her. “You all saved me,” she said.

She noted that amid the criticism, important benefits had come out of the flight, including elevated attention for her scientific work 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 Kármán line of space.

The group of women also featured experts in multiple disciplines.

The company behind the mission is a private space firm founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.