Crew Member Shares Depression In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Backlash After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also included high-profile passengers.

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

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

“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, recalling a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the days following the flight.

She described the news reports and online discourse 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 wrote. “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 female health science and conducted tests during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her scientific research and years of training to the historic significance of her roots – was buried under the deluge of misogyny.

She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

Finding Solid Ground

Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she said.

She noted that amid the criticism, important benefits had resulted from the mission, including elevated attention for her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the Kármán line of outer space.

The team of pioneers also included accomplished professionals from different industries.

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