Astronaut Reveals Depression In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Harassment After Historic Trip
A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also included well-known figures.
The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, describing a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the aftermath of the flight.
She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and conducted tests during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her studies and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her roots – was drowned out under the deluge of misogyny.
She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after an attack during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.
The Fog Begins to Lift
In the time since fulfilling her dream, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose support pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.
She noted that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the experience, including spotlight on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.
Flight Details
The self-operating New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that passed the edge of space.
The team of pioneers also comprised experts in multiple disciplines.
The company behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
