Crew Member Reveals Depression After Wave of Harassment After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also featured high-profile passengers.

The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a social media post, referring to a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the period after the flight.

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

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she revealed. “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 gynecological science and performed experiments during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her studies and years of training to the symbolic importance of her background – was drowned out under the tide of gendered attacks.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following fulfilling her dream, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the supporters whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “You all saved me,” she said.

She added that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the mission, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

About the Mission

The fully automated New Shepard rocket departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that exceeded the edge of space.

The group of women also featured experts in different industries.

The enterprise behind the flight is a private space firm launched by a well-known tech mogul.