Crew Member Shares Depression After ‘Tsunami of Backlash Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also featured well-known figures.

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

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a social media post, referring to a phone call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the landing.

She described the news reports and online discourse as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she revealed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

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 extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her background – was overshadowed under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused 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 reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she said.

She noted that amid the criticism, important benefits had resulted from the flight, such as spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The self-operating spacecraft launched from its launch site in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that passed the Kármán line of outer space.

The team of pioneers also featured leaders in multiple disciplines.

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