Crew Member Shares Mental Health Struggle Following ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about 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 – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also featured well-known figures.

The mission was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a public message, describing a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the period after the journey.

She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“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 conducted studies in female health science and performed experiments during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her studies and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her roots – was buried under the deluge of gendered attacks.

She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.

Her own goal of reaching space was paused after an attack during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

A Path to Recovery

In the time since fulfilling her dream, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.

She added that amid the criticism, considerable good had emerged from the experience, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that crossed the edge of space.

The diverse crew also included accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.

The venture behind the flight is a private space firm launched by a Amazon founder.