Crew Member Discloses Mental Health Struggle Following ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her battle with depression after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also included well-known figures.

The mission was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a social media post, recalling a check-in call from a mission companion in the days following the flight.

She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has conducted studies in women's health research and performed experiments during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her studies and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her background – was overshadowed under the deluge of misogyny.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

Finding Solid Ground

Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose support helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She added that amid the criticism, considerable good had come out of the flight, including elevated attention for her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The self-operating spacecraft launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The diverse crew also featured experts in different industries.

The enterprise behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company founded by a well-known tech mogul.