Astronaut Shares Depression Following ‘Tsunami of Harassment After Historic Trip
A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” 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 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also carried high-profile passengers.
The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, referring to a check-in call from a mission companion in the days following the flight.
She described the press attention and digital reaction as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“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.”
Buried Under Misogyny
Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and performed experiments during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her scientific research and years of training to the personal milestone of her roots – was drowned out under the tide of gendered attacks.
She is best known for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for survivors of assault.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
Finding Solid Ground
Now, eight months after reaching space, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the supporters whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.
She concluded that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the flight, such as elevated attention for her women's health research and platforms for her activism.
The Historic Journey
The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that passed the Kármán line of space.
The team of pioneers also featured accomplished professionals from various fields.
The company behind the mission is a private space firm established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
