Crew Member Reveals Emotional Distress In the Wake of Wave of Harassment After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her battle with depression after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” 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 brief journey to space in the spring, which also included high-profile passengers.

The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the ordeal, 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,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, describing a phone call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the journey.

She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she revealed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on female health science and conducted tests during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her scientific research and years of training to the historic significance of her background – was drowned out under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is best known for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for survivors of assault.

Her own goal of reaching space was paused after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose support were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She concluded that amid the criticism, considerable good had come out of the flight, such as elevated attention for her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

Flight Details

The fully automated spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The diverse crew also featured accomplished professionals from different industries.

The company behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company established by a well-known tech mogul.