Crew Member Shares Mental Health Struggle Following Wave of Online Abuse After Historic Trip

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

The 34-year-old activist – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also included well-known figures.

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

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who was celebrated 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,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, referring to a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the period after the journey.

She portrayed 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 revealed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has conducted studies in female health science and operated research during the mission, said everything she had worked for – including her lab work and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her roots – was buried under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.

Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after an attack during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the followers whose kindness helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.

She noted that amid the criticism, considerable good had resulted from the flight, such as spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The fully automated spacecraft lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The team of pioneers also included experts in different industries.

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