Crew Member Reveals Depression In the Wake of Deluge of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also included high-profile passengers.

The mission was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, describing a phone call from a fellow crew member in the period after the flight.

She described the press attention and digital reaction as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she revealed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has conducted studies in women's health research and conducted tests during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her scientific research and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her heritage – was overshadowed under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after an attack during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.

Finding Solid Ground

In the time since fulfilling her dream, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the followers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.

She added that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the experience, such as spotlight on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

Flight Details

The self-operating New Shepard rocket departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The group of women also comprised experts in multiple disciplines.

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