Crew Member Discloses Emotional Distress Following ‘Tsunami of Harassment Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about 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 – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also included celebrity crewmates.

The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, referring to a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the landing.

She portrayed the news reports and online discourse as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

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

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to female health science and performed experiments during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her scientific research and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her heritage – was buried under the avalanche of misogyny.

She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of survivors of assault.

Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.

A Path to Recovery

In the time since fulfilling her dream, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the supporters whose kindness pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She concluded that even with the backlash, considerable good had resulted from the flight, including spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The diverse crew also featured experts in different industries.

The company behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a Amazon founder.