Crew Member Discloses Emotional Distress In the Wake of Deluge of Online Abuse Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also included high-profile passengers.

The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, referring to a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the period after the journey.

She portrayed the news reports and online discourse as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and performed experiments during the mission, said every professional achievement – including her scientific research and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her roots – was overshadowed under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is best known for her pioneering work fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since achieving her goal, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She noted that despite the negativity, important benefits had resulted from the mission, including increased focus on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

About the Mission

The computer-piloted spacecraft departed its launch site in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The diverse crew also included experts in various fields.

The enterprise behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company launched by a Amazon founder.