Crew Member Reveals Mental Health Struggle Following Deluge of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also carried well-known figures.

The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, referring to a phone call from a mission companion in the days following the journey.

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

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she revealed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on gynecological science and conducted tests during the mission, said everything she had worked for – including her lab work and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her background – was overshadowed under the tide of misogyny.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.

Finding Solid Ground

Months following reaching space, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She noted that despite the negativity, considerable good had come out of the experience, including spotlight on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that passed the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The team of pioneers also featured leaders in different industries.

The venture behind the mission is a private space firm established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.