Crew Member Shares Mental Health Struggle Following Deluge of Backlash After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also featured high-profile passengers.

The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a online statement, describing a check-in call from a mission companion in the period after the landing.

She described the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy 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. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on gynecological science and operated research during the mission, said every professional achievement – including her scientific research and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her background – was buried under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for survivors of assault.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

A Path to Recovery

In the time since reaching space, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose kindness helped save her. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She added that amid the criticism, important benefits had resulted from the flight, including increased focus on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

The Historic Journey

The computer-piloted spacecraft lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that crossed the Kármán line of space.

The team of pioneers also featured experts in various fields.

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