Crew Member Reveals Mental Health Struggle After Wave of Backlash After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also included well-known figures.

The mission was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as 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 public message, describing a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the days following the journey.

She portrayed the news reports and online discourse 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

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in women's health research and performed experiments during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her studies and years of training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was drowned out under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is widely recognized for her pioneering work championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.

Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose kindness pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.

She concluded that despite the negativity, considerable good had resulted from the mission, such as spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The fully automated spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the edge of outer space.

The group of women also featured experts in various fields.

The enterprise behind the flight is a private space firm launched by a Amazon founder.