Crew Member Discloses Mental Health Struggle Following ‘Tsunami of Harassment Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also included well-known figures.

The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a public message, recalling a check-in call from a mission companion in the period after the landing.

She described 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 revealed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in female health science and conducted tests during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her studies and astronaut training to the historic significance of her background – was overshadowed under the deluge of gendered attacks.

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

Her own goal of reaching space was paused after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the followers whose kindness helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She added that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had come out of the experience, including increased focus on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

Flight Details

The fully automated spacecraft launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that crossed the Kármán line of outer space.

The team of pioneers also included experts in multiple disciplines.

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