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

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also carried well-known figures.

The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, recalling a phone call from a mission companion in the days following the journey.

She portrayed the news reports and online discourse as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she revealed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and operated research during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her scientific research and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her background – was overshadowed under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

Finding Solid Ground

Now, eight months after reaching space, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the supporters whose support were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.

She added that even with the backlash, considerable good had resulted from the flight, including elevated attention for her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

About the Mission

The fully automated New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The diverse crew also comprised leaders in different industries.

The enterprise behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company launched by a well-known tech mogul.