Crew Member Discloses Emotional Distress Following Deluge of Harassment Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also featured well-known figures.

The mission was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, describing a phone call from a mission companion in the days following the flight.

She characterized the press attention and digital reaction as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on gynecological science and performed experiments during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her scientific research and years of training to the historic significance of her background – was drowned out under the tide of misogyny.

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

Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

Finding Solid Ground

Now, eight months after reaching space, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the supporters whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she said.

She concluded that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the flight, such as increased focus on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The self-operating spacecraft launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that passed the edge of outer space.

The team of pioneers also included accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.

The venture behind the mission is a private space firm founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.