Crew Member Reveals Mental Health Struggle Following Wave of Harassment After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also featured high-profile passengers.

The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, 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 social media post, recalling a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the days following 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 confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in women's health research and conducted tests during the mission, said everything she had worked for – from her scientific research and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was overshadowed under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is best known for her pioneering work protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

Finding Solid Ground

Months following achieving her goal, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.

She added that amid the criticism, considerable good had come out of the experience, including spotlight on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

About the Mission

The computer-piloted spacecraft departed Texas in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that exceeded the edge of space.

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

The enterprise behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.