Crew Member Discloses Depression In the Wake of Wave of Backlash After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also included well-known figures.

The mission was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, describing a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the flight.

She described the news reports and online discourse as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she revealed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on female health science and operated research during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her studies and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her heritage – was drowned out under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of survivors of assault.

Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after an attack during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

A Path to Recovery

Months following fulfilling her dream, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the followers whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.

She noted that despite the negativity, important benefits had come out of the experience, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The computer-piloted spacecraft departed Texas in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that passed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The diverse crew also featured accomplished professionals from different industries.

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