Astronaut Shares Depression Following Deluge of Online Abuse Following Journey
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism 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 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also included well-known figures.
The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a social media post, referring to a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the flight.
She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on women's health research and performed experiments during the mission, said everything she had worked for – from her lab work and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her background – was buried under the avalanche of gendered attacks.
She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of survivors of assault.
Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after an attack during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.
Finding Solid Ground
In the time since achieving her goal, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose kindness were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she wrote.
She concluded that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the mission, such as increased focus on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.
About the Mission
The fully automated New Shepard rocket departed Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that crossed the Kármán line of outer space.
The diverse crew also featured accomplished professionals from different industries.
The company behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.