Crew Member Discloses Depression In the Wake of Wave of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also featured celebrity crewmates.

The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, referring to a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the period after the journey.

She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has conducted studies in female health science and operated research during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her studies and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her roots – was overshadowed under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following achieving her goal, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose kindness were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she said.

She concluded that even with the backlash, considerable good had come out of the mission, such as spotlight on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

Flight Details

The fully automated New Shepard rocket departed Texas in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that crossed the edge of outer space.

The team of pioneers also featured accomplished professionals from various fields.

The venture behind the flight is a private space firm established by a Amazon founder.