Astronaut Shares Depression Following ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse Following Journey
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
The 34-year-old activist – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also included celebrity crewmates.
The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a social media post, describing a check-in call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the flight.
She portrayed the news reports and online discourse as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.
“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
The researcher, who has focused her career on female health science and performed experiments during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her scientific research and years of training to the personal milestone of her heritage – was buried under the avalanche of gendered attacks.
She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for survivors of assault.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
A Path to Recovery
Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the supporters whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.
She noted that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had come out of the mission, such as increased focus on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
Flight Details
The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that passed the Kármán line of outer space.
The group of women also included experts in multiple disciplines.
The company behind the flight is a private space firm established by a Amazon founder.
