Crew Member Reveals Mental Health Struggle After Deluge of Online Abuse Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse 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 in April, which also featured celebrity crewmates.

The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, describing a phone call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the journey.

She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

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

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in women's health research and performed experiments during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her scientific research and years of training to the symbolic importance of her background – was buried under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the supporters whose kindness were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she wrote.

She noted that even with the backlash, important benefits had resulted from the mission, including increased focus on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

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

The diverse crew also featured accomplished professionals from different industries.

The enterprise behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company founded by a Amazon founder.