Crew Member Shares Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her emotional downturn 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 – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also included celebrity crewmates.

The mission was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, referring to a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the flight.

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. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to female health science and operated research during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her scientific research and years of training to the symbolic importance of her background – was buried under the tide of gendered attacks.

She is widely recognized for her pioneering work protecting the rights of survivors of assault.

Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after an attack during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following fulfilling her dream, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the supporters whose support were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.

She added that despite the negativity, considerable good had emerged from the experience, such as increased focus on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that passed the edge of space.

The group of women also included leaders in various fields.

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