Crew Member Shares Mental Health Struggle After Deluge of Backlash After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also featured high-profile passengers.

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

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a online statement, referring to a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the period after the journey.

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

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

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and operated research during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her scientific research and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her background – was buried under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for survivors of assault.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

Finding Solid Ground

Months following fulfilling her dream, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose kindness helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.

She added that even with the backlash, important benefits had resulted from the mission, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The fully automated New Shepard rocket departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the edge of space.

The team of pioneers also comprised leaders in different industries.

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