Crew Member Discloses Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Backlash After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in the spring, which also carried high-profile passengers.

The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, recalling a check-in call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the journey.

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 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 every professional achievement – including her scientific research and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her background – was buried under the avalanche of misogyny.

She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of survivors of assault.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.

Finding Solid Ground

In the time since achieving her goal, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She concluded that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the flight, including spotlight on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

The Historic Journey

The computer-piloted spacecraft launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that passed the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The group of women also comprised experts in various fields.

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