Space Traveler Reveals Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Harassment Post-Spaceflight
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.
The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in the spring, which also included well-known figures.
The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, recalling a phone call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the flight.
She portrayed the news reports and online discourse as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Buried Under Misogyny
The researcher, who has conducted studies in women's health research and performed experiments during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her scientific research and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her background – was overshadowed under the deluge of misogyny.
She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.
A Path to Recovery
Months following achieving her goal, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose kindness pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.
She added that even with the backlash, considerable good had emerged from the mission, including elevated attention for her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.
Flight Details
The self-operating New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of space.
The group of women also included experts in various fields.
The enterprise behind the mission is a private space firm established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
