Crew Member Shares Depression Following Wave of Harassment Post-Spaceflight
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.
The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also carried high-profile passengers.
The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, referring to a phone call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the flight.
She characterized the press attention and digital reaction as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.
“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
The researcher, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and performed experiments during the mission, said everything she had worked for – including her lab work and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her roots – was drowned out under the deluge of sexist vitriol.
She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.
A Path to Recovery
Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the followers whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “You all saved me,” she said.
She concluded that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had come out of the mission, including increased focus on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.
The Historic Journey
The self-operating New Shepard rocket departed Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the edge of space.
The team of pioneers also featured accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.
The enterprise behind the flight is a private space firm founded by a Amazon founder.
