🔗 Share this article Crew Member Reveals Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Deluge of Online Abuse Following Journey The scientist and activist, a women's health researcher, was a passenger on the automated spacecraft in April 2025. A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her battle with depression after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission. The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also included celebrity crewmates. The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint. Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse. “I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, describing a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the aftermath of the journey. She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy 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. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.” Overshadowed by Sexism The researcher, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her scientific research and years of training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was buried under the avalanche of gendered attacks. She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of survivors of assault. Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after an attack during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice. Finding Solid Ground In the time since achieving her goal, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the supporters whose support were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she said. She added that despite the negativity, considerable good had resulted from the experience, such as spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities. About the Mission The computer-piloted spacecraft launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that crossed the Kármán line of space. The diverse crew also included leaders in various fields. The company behind the mission is a private space firm established by a well-known tech mogul.
The scientist and activist, a women's health researcher, was a passenger on the automated spacecraft in April 2025. A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her battle with depression after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission. The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also included celebrity crewmates. The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint. Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse. “I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, describing a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the aftermath of the journey. She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy 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. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.” Overshadowed by Sexism The researcher, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her scientific research and years of training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was buried under the avalanche of gendered attacks. She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of survivors of assault. Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after an attack during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice. Finding Solid Ground In the time since achieving her goal, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the supporters whose support were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she said. She added that despite the negativity, considerable good had resulted from the experience, such as spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities. About the Mission The computer-piloted spacecraft launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that crossed the Kármán line of space. The diverse crew also included leaders in various fields. The company behind the mission is a private space firm established by a well-known tech mogul.