Crew Member Shares Mental Health Struggle Following ‘Tsunami of Backlash Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her battle with depression after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism 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 high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, referring to a check-in call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the journey.

She described the press attention and digital reaction as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“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.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on gynecological science and performed experiments during the mission, said everything she had worked for – including her lab work and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her background – was buried under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for survivors of assault.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.

Finding Solid Ground

Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the followers whose kindness were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she wrote.

She concluded that even with the backlash, considerable good had come out of the mission, such as elevated attention for her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The self-operating spacecraft departed its launch site in April, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The diverse crew also included accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.

The enterprise behind the flight is a private space firm launched by a Amazon founder.