Crew Member Discloses Emotional Distress After ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also featured celebrity crewmates.

The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a public message, recalling a check-in call from a mission companion in the period after the flight.

She portrayed the news reports and online discourse as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she revealed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and operated research during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her lab work and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her heritage – was buried under the tide of misogyny.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

A Path to Recovery

Months following achieving her goal, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the followers whose kindness were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She added that even with the backlash, considerable good had resulted from the flight, including elevated attention for her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The fully automated New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that passed the Kármán line of space.

The team of pioneers also included accomplished professionals from different industries.

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