Space Traveler Reveals Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Deluge of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also featured high-profile passengers.

The mission was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, recalling a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the aftermath of 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. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has focused her career on female health science and conducted tests during the mission, said every professional achievement – including her studies and years of training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was drowned out under the deluge of gendered attacks.

She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

Her own goal of reaching space was paused after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the well-wishers whose kindness were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she said.

She added that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the flight, such as increased focus on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

About the Mission

The self-operating New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the edge of outer space.

The diverse crew also featured experts in multiple disciplines.

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