Crew Member Discloses Depression Following Deluge of Harassment After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also featured well-known figures.

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

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, recalling a phone call from a mission companion in the period after the landing.

She described 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 revealed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her scientific research and astronaut training to the historic significance of her heritage – was drowned out under the deluge of misogyny.

She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of survivors of assault.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

Finding Solid Ground

In the time since achieving her goal, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose support pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She concluded that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the experience, including increased focus on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted spacecraft launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the Kármán line of outer space.

The group of women also included leaders in different industries.

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