Crew Member Reveals Depression In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

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 mission was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.

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

“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, referring to a check-in call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the journey.

She characterized the news reports and online discourse as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and performed experiments during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her lab work and years of training to the symbolic importance of her background – was buried under the deluge of gendered attacks.

She is most acclaimed 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 protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following fulfilling her dream, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the well-wishers whose kindness pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She added that amid the criticism, important benefits had emerged from the experience, such as elevated attention for her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The fully automated spacecraft launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that passed the Kármán line of outer space.

The diverse crew also comprised experts in various fields.

The company behind the mission is a private space firm established by a Amazon founder.