Crew Member Shares Mental Health Struggle Following Deluge of Harassment After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

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

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

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, describing a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the period after the landing.

She described the press attention and digital reaction 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. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in women's health research and operated research during the mission, said every professional achievement – including her studies and years of training to the symbolic importance of her background – was drowned out under the avalanche of misogyny.

She is best known for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose kindness were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She concluded that even with the backlash, important benefits had come out of the flight, including spotlight on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The self-operating spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the edge of outer space.

The team of pioneers also included accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.

The company behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.