Crew Member Discloses Depression Following ‘Tsunami of Backlash Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also included well-known figures.

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

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a online statement, describing a phone call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the landing.

She described the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on female health science and performed experiments during the mission, said everything she had worked for – from her lab work and years of training to the historic significance of her roots – was drowned out under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.

Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose kindness helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She added that even with the backlash, considerable good had emerged from the flight, such as increased focus on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

About the Mission

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket departed Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that crossed the Kármán line of outer space.

The group of women also comprised leaders in multiple disciplines.

The venture behind the flight is a private space firm founded by a Amazon founder.