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

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also featured high-profile passengers.

The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a public message, describing a phone call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the landing.

She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.

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

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and operated research during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her lab work and years of training to the symbolic importance of her roots – was overshadowed under the avalanche of misogyny.

She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after an attack during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.

Finding Solid Ground

Now, eight months after reaching space, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose kindness helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.

She added that even with the backlash, important benefits had come out of the mission, such as spotlight on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

Flight Details

The fully automated spacecraft launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that passed the edge of space.

The group of women also included leaders in multiple disciplines.

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