Crew Member Discloses Mental Health Struggle After ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in the spring, which also featured high-profile passengers.

The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, describing a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the days following the flight.

She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

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

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and conducted tests during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her scientific research and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her background – was drowned out under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.

A Path to Recovery

In the time since achieving her goal, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she said.

She noted that even with the backlash, important benefits had resulted from the flight, such as increased focus on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the edge of outer space.

The diverse crew also comprised accomplished professionals from various fields.

The venture behind the flight is a private space firm founded by a well-known tech mogul.