Crew Member Shares Mental Health Struggle Following Deluge of Online Abuse Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also included celebrity crewmates.

The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a public message, recalling a phone call from a fellow crew member in the period after the flight.

She characterized the news reports and online discourse as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and conducted tests during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her scientific research and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her roots – was drowned out under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after an attack during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since fulfilling her dream, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the followers whose kindness were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.

She added that despite the negativity, important benefits had come out of the flight, such as increased focus on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The fully automated spacecraft departed its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that exceeded the Kármán line of space.

The group of women also included accomplished professionals from different industries.

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