Crew Member Discloses Mental Health Struggle Following Deluge of Online Abuse After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also featured high-profile passengers.

The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, recalling a phone call from a fellow crew member 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”.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on women's health research and performed experiments during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her lab work and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her heritage – was drowned out under the deluge of gendered attacks.

She is best known for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.

Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after an attack during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

Finding Solid Ground

In the time since fulfilling her dream, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose support were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she said.

She noted that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the mission, such as spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The fully automated spacecraft departed Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that passed the edge of outer space.

The group of women also comprised accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.

The company behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company founded by a Amazon founder.