Crew Member Shares Depression In the Wake of Wave of Online Abuse 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 landmark journey to the edge of space.

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also included well-known figures.

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

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, recalling a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the period after the flight.

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 wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has focused her career on gynecological science and operated research during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her studies and years of training to the personal milestone of her roots – was overshadowed under the deluge of gendered attacks.

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

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.

Finding Solid Ground

Months following achieving her goal, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose kindness were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she said.

She concluded that amid the criticism, considerable good had emerged from the mission, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

The self-operating New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The group of women also included experts in multiple disciplines.

The venture behind the flight is a private space firm founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.