Crew Member Shares Depression After ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also featured celebrity crewmates.
The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a social media post, describing a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the days following the flight.
She characterized the news reports and online discourse as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“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
Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and conducted tests during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her studies and years of training to the symbolic importance of her background – was buried under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.
She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
A Path to Recovery
Months following achieving her goal, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the followers whose kindness helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she said.
She concluded that amid the criticism, considerable good had emerged from the flight, including increased focus on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.
The Historic Journey
The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of space.
The group of women also comprised leaders in different industries.
The company behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a well-known tech mogul.
