Crew Member Discloses Depression After Wave of Online Abuse Following Journey
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her battle with depression after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also featured well-known figures.
The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, describing a phone call from a fellow crew member 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. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
The researcher, who has focused her career on female health science and conducted tests during the mission, said every professional achievement – including her scientific research and years of training to the personal milestone of her roots – was drowned out under the tide of sexist vitriol.
She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of survivors of assault.
Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
Finding Solid Ground
In the time since fulfilling her dream, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the followers whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.
She noted that even with the backlash, considerable good had emerged from the mission, such as spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.
Flight Details
The fully automated New Shepard rocket departed its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.
The team of pioneers also included leaders in various fields.
The company behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
