Crew Member Shares Depression In the Wake of Deluge of Online Abuse Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

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

The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a public message, recalling a check-in call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the journey.

She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and operated research during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her studies and years of training to the symbolic importance of her background – was overshadowed under the deluge of gendered attacks.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.

Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose support helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.

She added that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the flight, such as spotlight on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

The computer-piloted spacecraft departed Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that passed the Kármán line of space.

The diverse crew also comprised experts in various fields.

The venture behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company launched by a Amazon founder.