Crew Member Shares Mental Health Struggle After ‘Tsunami of Harassment After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after enduring 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 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also featured celebrity crewmates.

The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, describing a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the flight.

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.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on women's health research and performed experiments during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her scientific research and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her roots – was overshadowed under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for survivors of assault.

Her own goal of reaching space was paused after an attack during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

Finding Solid Ground

Months following fulfilling her dream, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she said.

She noted that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the mission, such as increased focus on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The self-operating New Shepard rocket departed Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the Kármán line of outer space.

The group of women also featured leaders in various fields.

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