Crew Member Shares Mental Health Struggle Following ‘Tsunami of Backlash Following Journey

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

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also carried high-profile passengers.

The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, describing a phone call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the journey.

She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and conducted tests during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her scientific research and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her background – was overshadowed under the tide of misogyny.

She is widely recognized for her pioneering work fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since fulfilling her dream, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose kindness were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She noted that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the flight, including elevated attention for her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The fully automated spacecraft departed its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The group of women also featured accomplished professionals from different industries.

The enterprise behind the flight is a private space firm founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.