Astronaut Discloses Mental Health Struggle Following Deluge of Backlash After Historic Trip
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her battle with depression after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.
The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also included well-known figures.
The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, referring to a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the period after the landing.
She characterized 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 wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to female health science and performed experiments during the flight, said everything she had worked for – including her scientific research and years of training to the historic significance of her background – was buried under the avalanche of misogyny.
She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
A Path to Recovery
Months following fulfilling her dream, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose kindness helped save her. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.
She added that amid the criticism, considerable good had resulted from the flight, including spotlight on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.
The Historic Journey
The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket departed Texas in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the Kármán line of space.
The diverse crew also comprised accomplished professionals from various fields.
The enterprise behind the flight is a private space firm established by a well-known tech mogul.
