Astronaut Reveals Depression Following ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse Following Journey
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” 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 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also featured high-profile passengers.
The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“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 days following the landing.
She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she revealed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and conducted tests during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her scientific research and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her roots – was overshadowed under the avalanche of gendered attacks.
She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of survivors of assault.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.
A Path to Recovery
In the time since fulfilling her dream, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she said.
She concluded that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the experience, including spotlight on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.
Flight Details
The self-operating spacecraft departed its launch site in April, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that passed the Kármán line of space.
The diverse crew also included experts in multiple disciplines.
The venture behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company launched by a Amazon founder.
