Crew Member Shares Mental Health Struggle After Wave of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also carried well-known figures.

The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, describing a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the journey.

She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and operated research during the mission, said every professional achievement – including her scientific research and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her heritage – was overshadowed under the tide of sexist vitriol.

She is best known for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for survivors of assault.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.

A Path to Recovery

Months following reaching space, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the followers whose support pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.

She added that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the flight, such as increased focus on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that passed the Kármán line of space.

The team of pioneers also featured leaders in multiple disciplines.

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