Astronaut Reveals Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Wave of Harassment After Historic Trip
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.
The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also carried celebrity crewmates.
The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, describing a check-in call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the flight.
She characterized the news reports and online discourse as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.
“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Buried Under Misogyny
Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in women's health research and conducted tests during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her studies and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her background – was drowned out under the deluge of sexist vitriol.
She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
Finding Solid Ground
In the time since achieving her goal, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the supporters whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.
She concluded that even with the backlash, important benefits had come out of the flight, including increased focus on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.
The Historic Journey
The fully automated New Shepard rocket departed Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that passed the edge of outer space.
The diverse crew also featured leaders in various fields.
The company behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
