Astronaut Reveals Depression After Deluge of Harassment Following Journey
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
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 featured well-known figures.
The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, describing a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the aftermath of the journey.
She characterized the news reports and online discourse as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Buried Under Misogyny
Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in female health science and conducted tests during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her scientific research and years of training to the personal milestone of her background – was drowned out under the deluge of sexist vitriol.
She is best known for her pioneering work protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.
Finding Solid Ground
Months following fulfilling her dream, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.
She concluded that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had come out of the flight, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
The Historic Journey
The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the Kármán line of space.
The team of pioneers also included experts in multiple disciplines.
The company behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
