đ Share this article Space Traveler Shares Depression Following Wave of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight The scientist and activist, a women's health researcher, was onboard the automated spacecraft in Spring 2025. A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight. The 34-year-old activist â known as a researcher and activist â was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also featured celebrity crewmates. The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact. Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse. âI told her my depression might last for years,â she recounted in a online statement, recalling a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the days following the journey. She described the press attention and digital reaction as an barrage beyond typical human coping. âStuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,â she wrote. âA month later⌠I had to hang up⌠because I could not speak through my tears.â Eclipsed by Backlash Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said everything she had worked for â including her studies and years of training to the historic significance of her roots â was drowned out under the tide of sexist vitriol. She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of victims of sexual violence. Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability. A Path to Recovery In the time since reaching space, she has stated the âfog of grief has started to liftâ, and she acknowledged the supporters whose kindness were her lifeline. âYour support rescued me,â she affirmed. She noted that despite the negativity, considerable good had emerged from the experience, such as increased focus on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders. Flight Details The self-operating spacecraft lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of outer space. The group of women also comprised experts in different industries. The company behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company established by a well-known tech mogul.
The scientist and activist, a women's health researcher, was onboard the automated spacecraft in Spring 2025. A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight. The 34-year-old activist â known as a researcher and activist â was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also featured celebrity crewmates. The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact. Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse. âI told her my depression might last for years,â she recounted in a online statement, recalling a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the days following the journey. She described the press attention and digital reaction as an barrage beyond typical human coping. âStuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,â she wrote. âA month later⌠I had to hang up⌠because I could not speak through my tears.â Eclipsed by Backlash Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said everything she had worked for â including her studies and years of training to the historic significance of her roots â was drowned out under the tide of sexist vitriol. She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of victims of sexual violence. Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability. A Path to Recovery In the time since reaching space, she has stated the âfog of grief has started to liftâ, and she acknowledged the supporters whose kindness were her lifeline. âYour support rescued me,â she affirmed. She noted that despite the negativity, considerable good had emerged from the experience, such as increased focus on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders. Flight Details The self-operating spacecraft lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of outer space. The group of women also comprised experts in different industries. The company behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company established by a well-known tech mogul.