Crew Member Discloses Mental Health Struggle Following ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse After Historic Trip
A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also featured high-profile passengers.
The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, recalling a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the period after the journey.
She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she revealed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and conducted tests during the mission, said everything she had worked for – from her lab work and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her background – was buried under the tide of misogyny.
She is widely recognized for her pioneering work protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after an attack during her university years, 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 expressed gratitude the supporters whose kindness helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.
She added that despite the negativity, important benefits had emerged from the flight, including elevated attention for her women's health research and platforms for her activism.
Flight Details
The fully automated spacecraft departed its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that crossed the edge of outer space.
The diverse crew also comprised accomplished professionals from different industries.
The enterprise behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company launched by a Amazon founder.
