Astronaut Discloses Depression In the Wake of Deluge of Backlash Post-Spaceflight
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also carried well-known figures.
The much-publicized journey 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 intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, recalling a check-in call from a mission companion in the period after the journey.
She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
The researcher, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and operated research during the mission, said every professional achievement – including her lab work and years of training to the personal milestone of her heritage – was buried under the tide of misogyny.
She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.
Her own goal of reaching space was paused after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
A Path to Recovery
Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the followers whose kindness helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.
She concluded that even with the backlash, considerable good had emerged from the flight, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
Flight Details
The self-operating New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that crossed the edge of outer space.
The team of pioneers also featured accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.
The enterprise behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company founded by a well-known tech mogul.
