Crew Member Reveals Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Wave of Backlash Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake 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 mission was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, describing a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the days following the landing.

She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her studies and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was overshadowed under the deluge of misogyny.

She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since achieving her goal, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose support pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She added that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the experience, such as spotlight on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The fully automated New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that crossed the edge of outer space.

The team of pioneers also included accomplished professionals from different industries.

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