Crew Member Discloses Emotional Distress Following Deluge of Backlash After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut 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 scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also featured celebrity crewmates.

The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a social media post, referring to a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the days following the flight.

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

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has focused her career on gynecological science and operated research during the mission, said every professional achievement – including her scientific research and years of training to the historic significance of her heritage – was overshadowed under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.

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

A Path to Recovery

Months following achieving her goal, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the followers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she said.

She noted that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the flight, such as increased focus on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The fully automated New Shepard rocket departed its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that passed the Kármán line of space.

The group of women also featured leaders in different industries.

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