🔗 Share this article Crew Member Reveals Depression Following Wave of Backlash After Historic Trip The scientist and activist, a women's health researcher, was aboard the automated spacecraft in April 2025. A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission. The 34-year-old activist – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also included well-known figures. The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint. Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred. “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 aftermath of the landing. She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction as an barrage beyond typical human coping. “For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.” Buried Under Misogyny Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on female health science and conducted tests during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her scientific research and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her heritage – was buried under the deluge of gendered attacks. She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors. Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability. The Fog Begins to Lift Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote. She concluded that despite the negativity, important benefits had come out of the flight, such as spotlight on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders. About the Mission The self-operating New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of space. The group of women also comprised experts in various fields. The enterprise behind the mission is a private space firm established by a Amazon founder.
The scientist and activist, a women's health researcher, was aboard the automated spacecraft in April 2025. A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission. The 34-year-old activist – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also included well-known figures. The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint. Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred. “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 aftermath of the landing. She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction as an barrage beyond typical human coping. “For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.” Buried Under Misogyny Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on female health science and conducted tests during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her scientific research and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her heritage – was buried under the deluge of gendered attacks. She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors. Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability. The Fog Begins to Lift Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote. She concluded that despite the negativity, important benefits had come out of the flight, such as spotlight on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders. About the Mission The self-operating New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of space. The group of women also comprised experts in various fields. The enterprise behind the mission is a private space firm established by a Amazon founder.