Astronaut Discloses Depression Following Wave of Backlash Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

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

The mission was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, referring to a check-in call from a mission companion in the period after the flight.

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

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and performed experiments during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her lab work and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her roots – was drowned out under the tide of misogyny.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.

Finding Solid Ground

In the time since fulfilling her dream, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose support helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.

She concluded that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the experience, including elevated attention for her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The self-operating New Shepard rocket departed its launch site in April, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that passed the edge of outer space.

The team of pioneers also included experts in multiple disciplines.

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