Crew Member Reveals Depression In the Wake of Wave of Online Abuse After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her battle with depression after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the wake 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 earlier this year, which also included high-profile passengers.

The mission was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, referring to a check-in call from a mission companion in the period after the flight.

She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she revealed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to female health science and conducted tests during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her lab work and years of training to the historic significance of her roots – was overshadowed under the deluge of misogyny.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of survivors of assault.

Her own goal of reaching space was paused after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following reaching space, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the followers whose support helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.

She concluded that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the mission, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

The Historic Journey

The fully automated New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The diverse crew also included accomplished professionals from various fields.

The venture behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a Amazon founder.