Crew Member Discloses Mental Health Struggle After ‘Tsunami of Harassment After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also included celebrity crewmates.

The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash 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 check-in call from a mission companion in the period after the landing.

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. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has focused her career on female health science and performed experiments during the mission, said everything she had worked for – including her studies and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her roots – was buried under the tide of misogyny.

She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since achieving her goal, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the followers whose support helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she said.

She noted that despite the negativity, important benefits had resulted from the flight, such as elevated attention for her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

The self-operating spacecraft lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that passed the edge of outer space.

The group of women also comprised leaders in multiple disciplines.

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