Astronaut Discloses Depression In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Harassment Post-Spaceflight
A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse 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 short-duration mission in April, which also featured high-profile passengers.
The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a social media post, recalling a check-in call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the flight.
She characterized the press attention and digital reaction as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on women's health research and performed experiments during the mission, said everything she had worked for – including her scientific research and years of training to the historic significance of her roots – was buried under the avalanche of misogyny.
She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of survivors of assault.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
Finding Solid Ground
Months following achieving her goal, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose kindness pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.
She concluded that amid the criticism, considerable good had resulted from the experience, including elevated attention for her women's health research and platforms for her activism.
The Historic Journey
The computer-piloted spacecraft departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.
The group of women also included accomplished professionals from different industries.
The venture behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.