Astronaut Discloses Mental Health Struggle After Deluge of Online Abuse Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism 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 brief journey to space in April, which also carried celebrity crewmates.

The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, referring to a phone call from a mission companion in the days following the journey.

She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to female health science and operated research during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her studies and years of training to the symbolic importance of her roots – was drowned out under the deluge of gendered attacks.

She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.

Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after an attack during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following reaching space, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose support were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.

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

About the Mission

The fully automated spacecraft lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that crossed the edge of outer space.

The diverse crew also featured accomplished professionals from different industries.

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