Astronaut Shares Depression After Wave of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also featured celebrity crewmates.
The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a public message, recalling a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the period after the journey.
She characterized 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 confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
The researcher, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her studies and years of training to the historic significance of her background – was drowned out under the avalanche of gendered attacks.
She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after an attack during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.
The Fog Begins to Lift
Months following achieving her goal, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose support were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she said.
She added that amid the criticism, considerable good had emerged from the flight, including increased focus on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
About the Mission
The self-operating New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that passed the edge of outer space.
The group of women also included leaders in various fields.
The enterprise behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company established by a Amazon founder.
