Crew Member Reveals Emotional Distress Following ‘Tsunami of Harassment Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

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

The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a online statement, referring to a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the journey.

She characterized the news reports and online discourse as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and performed experiments during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her studies and years of training to the personal milestone of her heritage – was buried under the tide of misogyny.

She is best known for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for survivors of assault.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

Finding Solid Ground

Months following achieving her goal, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose kindness were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She concluded that even with the backlash, important benefits had resulted from the mission, such as spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The fully automated New Shepard rocket departed its launch site in April, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The group of women also featured accomplished professionals from various fields.

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