Crew Member Shares Depression After ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also included high-profile passengers.

The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a social media post, referring to a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the aftermath of the landing.

She portrayed the news reports and online discourse as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has focused her career on gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her lab work and years of training to the historic significance of her background – was overshadowed under the deluge of misogyny.

She is best known for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

A Path to Recovery

In the time since achieving her goal, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she wrote.

She concluded that even with the backlash, important benefits had emerged from the flight, including spotlight on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted spacecraft launched from its launch site in April, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that crossed the edge of outer space.

The team of pioneers also comprised experts in various fields.

The company behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company established by a well-known tech mogul.