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

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also carried celebrity crewmates.

The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a public message, recalling a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the days following the journey.

She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

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

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and operated research during the mission, said everything she had worked for – from her scientific research and years of training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was drowned out under the deluge of gendered attacks.

She is widely recognized for her pioneering work championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following achieving her goal, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the supporters whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she said.

She noted that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the flight, including elevated attention for her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted spacecraft lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that passed the edge of outer space.

The diverse crew also featured accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.

The enterprise behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.