Crew Member Reveals Emotional Distress Following Wave of Harassment After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her battle with depression after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.

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

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

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, referring to a phone call from a mission companion in the period after the journey.

She described the press attention and digital reaction as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in women's health research and operated research during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her studies and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her background – was overshadowed under the tide of gendered attacks.

She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

A Path to Recovery

Months following fulfilling her dream, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the followers whose support helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.

She concluded that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had come out of the mission, such as spotlight on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

Flight Details

The self-operating spacecraft lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the edge of outer space.

The diverse crew also featured leaders in different industries.

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