Crew Member Shares Emotional Distress In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Backlash After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in the spring, which also carried high-profile passengers.

The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, referring to a check-in call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the landing.

She characterized the news reports and online discourse as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of 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 gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her lab work and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her background – was overshadowed under the deluge of gendered attacks.

She is best known for her pioneering work protecting the rights of survivors of assault.

Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

Finding Solid Ground

Now, eight months after reaching space, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the followers whose kindness pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she wrote.

She added that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had come out of the flight, including spotlight on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

The fully automated New Shepard rocket departed its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the edge of outer space.

The diverse crew also comprised leaders in different industries.

The enterprise behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.