Astronaut Shares Depression In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Backlash Following Journey
A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.
The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also featured well-known figures.
The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a online statement, referring to a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the aftermath of the journey.
She characterized the press attention and digital reaction as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she revealed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
The researcher, who has conducted studies in women's health research and operated research during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her lab work and years of training to the symbolic importance of her roots – was buried under the avalanche of misogyny.
She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of survivors of assault.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.
Finding Solid Ground
Months following achieving her goal, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she said.
She concluded that despite the negativity, important benefits had come out of the mission, such as increased focus on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.
The Historic Journey
The fully automated New Shepard rocket departed Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that exceeded the Kármán line of space.
The diverse crew also included experts in various fields.
The enterprise behind the flight is a private space firm launched by a Amazon founder.
