Crew Member Reveals Depression After Deluge of Harassment After Historic Trip
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath 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 in the spring, which also carried well-known figures.
The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, describing a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the days following the landing.
She described the news reports and online discourse as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on gynecological science and operated research during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her lab work and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her roots – was overshadowed under the tide of sexist vitriol.
She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after an attack during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
Finding Solid Ground
Months following achieving her goal, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.
She noted that despite the negativity, important benefits had emerged from the experience, such as increased focus on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.
About the Mission
The fully automated New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that passed the Kármán line of outer space.
The group of women also comprised leaders in different industries.
The company behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a well-known tech mogul.
