Space Traveler Reveals Depression Following Wave of Online Abuse Following Journey
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
The 34-year-old activist – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also carried high-profile passengers.
The mission was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a online statement, recalling a phone call from a mission companion in the period after the flight.
She portrayed 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 confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Buried Under Misogyny
Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on female health science and performed experiments during the mission, said everything she had worked for – including her scientific research and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her roots – was drowned out under the tide of sexist vitriol.
She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
Finding Solid Ground
Months following fulfilling her dream, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she wrote.
She noted that even with the backlash, considerable good had emerged from the mission, including elevated attention for her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
About the Mission
The fully automated spacecraft lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of space.
The diverse crew also comprised accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.
The company behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company founded by a Amazon founder.
