Crew Member Discloses Mental Health Struggle Following Wave of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also carried celebrity crewmates.

The mission was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a social media post, recalling a phone call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the flight.

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

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and operated research during the mission, said everything she had worked for – from her studies and years of training to the personal milestone of her roots – was drowned out under the tide of gendered attacks.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.

Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

Finding Solid Ground

Months following fulfilling her dream, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose support helped save her. “You all saved me,” she wrote.

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

Flight Details

The self-operating spacecraft launched from its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that passed the Kármán line of space.

The group of women also included leaders in different industries.

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