Crew Member Reveals Depression Following ‘Tsunami of Harassment Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her battle with depression after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

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

The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who made history 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,” she recounted in a online statement, describing a phone call from a mission companion in the days following the flight.

She described the news reports and online discourse as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

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

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on women's health research and performed experiments during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her scientific research and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her background – was drowned out under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is best known for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of survivors of assault.

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

A Path to Recovery

In the time since fulfilling her dream, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the followers whose support pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she said.

She added that amid the criticism, considerable good had come out of the flight, including spotlight on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that crossed the edge of outer space.

The group of women also featured leaders in multiple disciplines.

The venture behind the mission is a private space firm established by a well-known tech mogul.