Space Traveler Reveals Depression In the Wake of Deluge of Harassment Following Journey
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
The 34-year-old activist – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also included well-known figures.
The mission was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a social media post, referring to a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the period after the landing.
She characterized 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. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on female health science and operated research during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her scientific research and astronaut training to the historic significance of her heritage – was drowned out under the deluge of misogyny.
She is best known for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
The Fog Begins to Lift
In the time since fulfilling her dream, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the followers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.
She noted that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the mission, including increased focus on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.
About the Mission
The fully automated New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.
The diverse crew also featured experts in various fields.
The company behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company founded by a well-known tech mogul.
