Crew Member Shares Emotional Distress In the Wake of Deluge of Online Abuse After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed 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 researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also featured celebrity crewmates.

The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a social media post, referring to a check-in call from a mission companion 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 revealed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and operated research during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her studies and years of training to the personal milestone of her background – was drowned out under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.

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

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since fulfilling her dream, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the supporters whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she said.

She noted that despite the negativity, important benefits had come out of the experience, such as increased focus on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

About the Mission

The fully automated spacecraft lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The diverse crew also featured accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.

The venture behind the flight is a private space firm founded by a well-known tech mogul.