Crew Member Discloses Depression After Wave of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also included high-profile passengers.

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

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, recalling a phone call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the flight.

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

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to female health science and performed experiments during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her lab work and astronaut training to the historic significance of her background – was drowned out under the deluge of misogyny.

She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of survivors of assault.

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

Finding Solid Ground

In the time since reaching space, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose kindness pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.

She added that even with the backlash, considerable good had resulted from the mission, such as spotlight on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

Flight Details

The fully automated New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that crossed the edge of space.

The group of women also featured accomplished professionals from different industries.

The enterprise behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company launched by a well-known tech mogul.