Crew Member Reveals Emotional Distress In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

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

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

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, recalling a check-in call from a mission companion in the period after the landing.

She portrayed the news reports and online discourse as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

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

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in female health science and conducted tests during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her studies and years of training to the personal milestone of her background – was drowned out under the tide of gendered attacks.

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

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the followers whose support pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She added that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the experience, including elevated attention for her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

The fully automated New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the Kármán line of outer space.

The diverse crew also comprised accomplished professionals from different industries.

The company behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company founded by a Amazon founder.