Crew Member Discloses Mental Health Struggle After Deluge of Backlash Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

The 34-year-old activist – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also featured celebrity crewmates.

The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, referring to a check-in call from a mission companion in the days following the journey.

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

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in female health science and performed experiments during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her scientific research and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was overshadowed under the tide of sexist vitriol.

She is best known for her pioneering work championing the cause of survivors of assault.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since fulfilling her dream, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she said.

She concluded that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the flight, such as spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that passed the Kármán line of outer space.

The diverse crew also comprised leaders in multiple disciplines.

The enterprise behind the mission is a private space firm established by a Amazon founder.