Crew Member Reveals Depression Following Wave of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

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

The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, 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,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, recalling a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the period after the journey.

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

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to female health science and conducted tests during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her lab work and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her background – was drowned out under the deluge of gendered attacks.

She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since reaching space, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose support helped save her. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She noted that even with the backlash, considerable good had come out of the experience, including elevated attention for her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that passed the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The diverse crew also included experts in multiple disciplines.

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