Crew Member Shares Depression In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Harassment After Historic Trip

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

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in the spring, which also featured well-known figures.

The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, referring to a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the days following the flight.

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

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her studies and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was buried under the deluge of gendered attacks.

She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.

Her own goal of reaching space was paused after an attack during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since fulfilling her dream, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.

She noted that despite the negativity, important benefits had emerged from the flight, including increased focus on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

The self-operating New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that passed the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The diverse crew also featured experts in multiple disciplines.

The venture behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company established by a well-known tech mogul.