Crew Member Shares Depression In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also carried high-profile passengers.

The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.

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

“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a public message, referring to a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the journey.

She described the press attention and digital reaction as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she revealed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in female health science and conducted tests during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her scientific research and years of training to the personal milestone of her roots – was drowned out under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after an attack during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.

Finding Solid Ground

In the time since achieving her goal, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the supporters whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She noted that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the experience, including spotlight on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

The self-operating spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The team of pioneers also comprised accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.

The company behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company founded by a well-known tech mogul.