Crew Member Reveals Emotional Distress In the Wake of Deluge of Online Abuse After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also included high-profile passengers.

The mission was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.

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

“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, referring to a phone call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the flight.

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

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she revealed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and performed experiments during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her studies and years of training to the historic significance of her heritage – was drowned out under the tide of misogyny.

She is widely recognized for her pioneering work championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.

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

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose kindness pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.

She concluded that even with the backlash, considerable good had come out of the experience, including spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The self-operating spacecraft departed its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that exceeded the edge of outer space.

The diverse crew also comprised accomplished professionals from various fields.

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