Space Traveler Shares Depression After ‘Tsunami of Harassment Following Journey
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her battle with depression after facing 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 scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also featured well-known figures.
The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a public message, recalling a phone call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the landing.
She described the press attention and digital reaction as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she revealed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in women's health research and conducted tests during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her scientific research and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her heritage – was overshadowed under the tide of misogyny.
She is widely recognized for her pioneering work protecting the rights of survivors of assault.
Her own goal of reaching space was paused after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
Finding Solid Ground
In the time since reaching space, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the followers whose kindness helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.
She concluded that despite the negativity, important benefits had come out of the mission, including spotlight on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.
About the Mission
The computer-piloted spacecraft departed Texas in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that passed the Kármán line of outer space.
The team of pioneers also featured accomplished professionals from different industries.
The enterprise behind the mission is a private space firm founded by a well-known tech mogul.
