Crew Member Reveals Depression Following Wave of Backlash Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also featured high-profile passengers.

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

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a public message, recalling a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the period after the landing.

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

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in women's health research and operated research during the mission, said everything she had worked for – from her scientific research and years of training to the historic significance of her heritage – was buried under the tide of gendered attacks.

She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of survivors of assault.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

Finding Solid Ground

Now, eight months after reaching space, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose support helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.

She added that even with the backlash, important benefits had come out of the experience, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that crossed the edge of space.

The group of women also featured leaders in multiple disciplines.

The enterprise behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.