Crew Member Reveals Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Wave of Harassment After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her battle with depression after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also featured well-known figures.

The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, referring to a phone call from a fellow crew member in the period after the landing.

She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and conducted tests during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her studies and years of training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was buried under the tide of gendered attacks.

She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after reaching space, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose support were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She concluded that amid the criticism, important benefits had come out of the mission, such as spotlight on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

Flight Details

The self-operating spacecraft launched from Texas 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 included experts in multiple disciplines.

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