Crew Member Discloses Emotional Distress After Deluge of Online Abuse After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake 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 high-profile passengers.

The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who was celebrated 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 social media post, referring to a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the aftermath of the flight.

She described the news reports and online discourse as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on women's health research and conducted tests during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her scientific research and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was buried under the tide of sexist vitriol.

She is best known for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.

Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after reaching space, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose kindness were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she said.

She noted that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the experience, including increased focus on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

The Historic Journey

The self-operating spacecraft launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the edge of outer space.

The team of pioneers also comprised accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.

The enterprise behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.