Crew Member Shares Depression After Wave of Harassment After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her battle with depression 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 – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also included high-profile passengers.

The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, recalling a phone call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the flight.

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

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to female health science and performed experiments during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her studies and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her background – was buried under the avalanche 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 paused after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since reaching space, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she said.

She added that amid the criticism, important benefits had emerged from the flight, including spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The fully automated spacecraft launched from its launch site in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that exceeded the edge of space.

The diverse crew also featured experts in various fields.

The company behind the flight is a private space firm established by a well-known tech mogul.