Crew Member Discloses Depression After Deluge of Backlash Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

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

The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, 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 public message, referring to a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the days following the flight.

She portrayed 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

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on female health science and conducted tests during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her lab work and years of training to the symbolic importance of her roots – was drowned out under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is best known for her pioneering work championing the cause of survivors of assault.

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

A Path to Recovery

In the time since reaching space, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she said.

She added that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had come out of the experience, including increased focus on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that passed the edge of outer space.

The diverse crew also comprised accomplished professionals from different industries.

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