Crew Member Shares Depression After Deluge of Harassment Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also carried celebrity crewmates.

The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a public message, recalling a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the aftermath of the landing.

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

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to female health science and operated research during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her studies and years of training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was overshadowed under the tide of misogyny.

She is widely recognized for her pioneering work protecting the rights of survivors of assault.

Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

Finding Solid Ground

In the time since fulfilling her dream, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the supporters whose support pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she wrote.

She noted that despite the negativity, important benefits had resulted from the experience, including increased focus on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The fully automated New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that passed the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The team of pioneers also featured accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.

The venture behind the flight is a private space firm launched by a well-known tech mogul.