Crew Member Discloses Emotional Distress Following Wave of Online Abuse After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her battle with depression after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also included celebrity crewmates.

The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, referring to a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the period after the journey.

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

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on female health science and operated research during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her studies and years of training to the symbolic importance of her roots – was buried under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

Her own goal of reaching space was paused after an attack during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.

Finding Solid Ground

Months following achieving her goal, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the well-wishers whose kindness pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She noted that amid the criticism, considerable good had come out of the flight, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted spacecraft lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that passed the edge of outer space.

The team of pioneers also featured experts in various fields.

The company behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company founded by a well-known tech mogul.