Crew Member Reveals Depression After ‘Tsunami of Backlash After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also included well-known figures.

The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a online statement, recalling a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the period after the journey.

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

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has focused her career on gynecological science and operated research during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her studies and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was overshadowed under the avalanche of misogyny.

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

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after an attack during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the supporters whose kindness pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She noted that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had come out of the experience, such as elevated attention for her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted spacecraft lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The group of women also featured accomplished professionals from various fields.

The enterprise behind the mission is a private space firm founded by a Amazon founder.