Astronaut Discloses Mental Health Struggle After Wave of Backlash After Historic Trip
A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her battle with depression after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath 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 heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, recalling a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the days following the landing.
She described the press attention and digital reaction as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.
“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Buried Under Misogyny
The researcher, who has conducted studies in women's health research and operated research during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her studies and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was buried under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.
She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
The Fog Begins to Lift
Now, eight months after reaching space, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she said.
She added that amid the criticism, considerable good had emerged from the flight, such as spotlight on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.
About the Mission
The self-operating New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that crossed the Kármán line of space.
The group of women also comprised accomplished professionals from different industries.
The venture behind the flight is a private space firm launched by a Amazon founder.
