Crew Member Discloses Mental Health Struggle After Deluge of Harassment Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her emotional downturn 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 included well-known figures.

The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, describing a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the period after the landing.

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

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and performed experiments during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her lab work and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her background – was buried under the tide of sexist vitriol.

She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after an attack during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

Finding Solid Ground

Months following fulfilling her dream, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose kindness helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she said.

She concluded that amid the criticism, considerable good had emerged from the experience, such as increased focus on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

Flight Details

The self-operating New Shepard rocket departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The group of women also featured experts in different industries.

The venture behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.