Crew Member Discloses Mental Health Struggle Following Wave of Backlash Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also carried well-known figures.

The mission was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, recalling a phone call from a mission companion in the period after the flight.

She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has conducted studies in female health science and operated research during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her studies and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her heritage – was buried under the tide of gendered attacks.

She is best known for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for survivors of assault.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after an attack during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.

Finding Solid Ground

Months following reaching space, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the well-wishers whose support were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She concluded that even with the backlash, important benefits had come out of the experience, including elevated attention for her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

The Historic Journey

The fully automated spacecraft departed Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that passed the edge of space.

The diverse crew also comprised leaders in various fields.

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