🔗 Share this article Space Traveler Shares Mental Health Struggle After Deluge of Backlash Following Journey The scientist and activist, a bioastronautics research scientist, was onboard the automated spacecraft in April 2025. A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her battle with depression 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 – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also featured high-profile passengers. The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint. Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred. “I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a public message, recalling a phone call from a fellow crew member in the days following the journey. She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction as an unprecedented psychological assault. “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 dedicated her work to gynecological science and operated research during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her lab work and astronaut training to the historic significance of her roots – was overshadowed under the avalanche of sexist vitriol. She is best known for her pioneering work fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence. Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle. The Fog Begins to Lift Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose kindness were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she affirmed. She added that amid the criticism, considerable good had emerged from the mission, such as increased focus on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities. About the Mission The fully automated spacecraft lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of outer space. The group of women also included leaders in different industries. The venture behind the flight is a private space firm founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
The scientist and activist, a bioastronautics research scientist, was onboard the automated spacecraft in April 2025. A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her battle with depression 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 – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also featured high-profile passengers. The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint. Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred. “I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a public message, recalling a phone call from a fellow crew member in the days following the journey. She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction as an unprecedented psychological assault. “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 dedicated her work to gynecological science and operated research during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her lab work and astronaut training to the historic significance of her roots – was overshadowed under the avalanche of sexist vitriol. She is best known for her pioneering work fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence. Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle. The Fog Begins to Lift Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose kindness were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she affirmed. She added that amid the criticism, considerable good had emerged from the mission, such as increased focus on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities. About the Mission The fully automated spacecraft lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of outer space. The group of women also included leaders in different industries. The venture behind the flight is a private space firm founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.