Astronaut Discloses Depression In the Wake of Wave of Backlash Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also included celebrity crewmates.

The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

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

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

“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.”

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to female health science and operated research during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her studies and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her roots – was overshadowed under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is best known for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

A Path to Recovery

Months following achieving her goal, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose support pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.

She concluded that amid the criticism, important benefits had emerged from the experience, including increased focus on her scientific work 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 short trip that exceeded the edge of outer space.

The diverse crew also comprised accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.

The enterprise behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.