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

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

The 34-year-old activist – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also carried high-profile passengers.

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

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, describing a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the flight.

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

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and operated research during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her lab work and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was overshadowed under the tide of gendered attacks.

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

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose support were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she said.

She concluded that even with the backlash, important benefits had resulted from the experience, such as spotlight on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

The Historic Journey

The computer-piloted spacecraft departed Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the edge of space.

The diverse crew also included accomplished professionals from various fields.

The venture behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company established by a well-known tech mogul.