Astronaut Reveals 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 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 earlier this year, which also carried well-known figures.
The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, referring to a phone call from a mission companion in the period after the flight.
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 revealed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in female health science and operated research during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her lab work and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her heritage – was drowned out under the avalanche of misogyny.
She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of survivors of assault.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.
A Path to Recovery
Months following fulfilling her dream, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose kindness helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she said.
She added that even with the backlash, considerable good had emerged from the experience, including elevated attention for her scientific work and platforms for her activism.
The Historic Journey
The computer-piloted spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that crossed the edge of space.
The team of pioneers also featured experts in different industries.
The company behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company launched by a Amazon founder.
