Crew Member Discloses Depression In the Wake of Deluge of Backlash After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also carried celebrity crewmates.

The mission was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, recalling a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the days following the journey.

She portrayed the news reports and online discourse as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

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

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in women's health research and performed experiments during the mission, said every professional achievement – including her lab work and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her background – was buried under the deluge of gendered attacks.

She is widely recognized for her pioneering work championing the cause of survivors of assault.

Her own goal of reaching space was paused after an attack during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

A Path to Recovery

Months following fulfilling her dream, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the well-wishers whose kindness pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.

She concluded that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the flight, such as increased focus on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

Flight Details

The self-operating spacecraft departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The diverse crew also comprised leaders in different industries.

The company behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company established by a well-known tech mogul.