Astronaut Discloses Depression After Deluge of Backlash Post-Spaceflight
A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.
The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also featured well-known figures.
The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“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 period after the flight.
She described the press attention and digital reaction as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in female health science and conducted tests during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her lab work and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her heritage – was drowned out under the tide of sexist vitriol.
She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of survivors of assault.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after an attack during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
The Fog Begins to Lift
Months following reaching space, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.
She added that even with the backlash, important benefits had emerged from the experience, including spotlight on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.
The Historic Journey
The self-operating spacecraft launched from its launch site in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that passed the Kármán line of space.
The group of women also comprised leaders in different industries.
The enterprise behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
