Astronaut Reveals Depression Following Wave of Online Abuse After Historic Trip
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.
The 34-year-old activist – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also included well-known figures.
The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, recalling a check-in call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the journey.
She described 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. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Buried Under Misogyny
The researcher, who has conducted studies in female health science and conducted tests during the mission, said every professional achievement – including her scientific research and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her heritage – was buried under the avalanche of misogyny.
She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.
The Fog Begins to Lift
In the time since reaching space, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the supporters whose support were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.
She added that despite the negativity, considerable good had resulted from the experience, including spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.
About the Mission
The fully automated New Shepard rocket departed Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that passed the internationally recognized boundary of space.
The team of pioneers also featured experts in different industries.
The company behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a Amazon founder.
