Crew Member Reveals Depression After ‘Tsunami of Backlash Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in the spring, which also included high-profile passengers.

The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, describing a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the days following the flight.

She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in female health science and performed experiments during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her lab work and astronaut training to the historic significance of her roots – was buried under the tide of misogyny.

She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after an attack during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after reaching space, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the followers whose support were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.

She noted that despite the negativity, important benefits had emerged from the flight, such as spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The fully automated New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The team of pioneers also featured experts in different industries.

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