Crew Member Discloses Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Deluge of Backlash After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also included well-known figures.

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

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a public message, referring to a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the period after the journey.

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

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

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in female health science and conducted tests during the mission, said every professional achievement – including her scientific research and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her roots – was drowned out under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is widely recognized for her pioneering work protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.

Her own goal of reaching space was paused after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

Finding Solid Ground

In the time since fulfilling her dream, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she said.

She noted that despite the negativity, considerable good had emerged from the experience, including elevated attention for her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted spacecraft departed Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The diverse crew also comprised accomplished professionals from different industries.

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