Astronaut Reveals Depression After Deluge of Harassment Post-Spaceflight
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her battle with depression 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 scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also featured high-profile passengers.
The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a online statement, describing a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the journey.
She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she confessed. “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 gynecological science and conducted tests during the mission, said everything she had worked for – from her studies and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her heritage – was overshadowed under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.
She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.
Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
Finding Solid Ground
In the time since fulfilling her dream, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the well-wishers whose kindness helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.
She noted that amid the criticism, considerable good had come out of the experience, such as increased focus on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
Flight Details
The self-operating spacecraft departed Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the Kármán line of space.
The group of women also comprised experts in various fields.
The company behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company founded by a well-known tech mogul.
