Crew Member Shares Depression In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also included high-profile passengers.

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

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, describing a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the period after the landing.

She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her studies and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her roots – was overshadowed under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

She is widely recognized for her pioneering work fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.

Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after an attack during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.

Finding Solid Ground

Months following fulfilling her dream, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she wrote.

She noted that amid the criticism, considerable good had come out of the flight, such as increased focus on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The fully automated spacecraft departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that passed the Kármán line of outer space.

The group of women also comprised experts in multiple disciplines.

The company behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.