Crew Member Shares Emotional Distress Following Wave of Backlash After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after facing a relentless barrage of criticism 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 short-duration mission earlier this year, which also carried celebrity crewmates.

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

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, describing a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the period after the landing.

She described the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

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

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on female health science and conducted tests during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her lab work and years of training to the symbolic importance of her background – was drowned out under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for survivors of assault.

Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following fulfilling her dream, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose support were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She noted that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had come out of the mission, such as spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

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

The group of women also featured leaders in multiple disciplines.

The company behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.