Space Traveler Reveals Depression After ‘Tsunami of Harassment Following Journey
A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in the spring, which also included celebrity crewmates.
The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a public message, describing a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the days following the flight.
She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her studies and astronaut training to the historic significance of her roots – was overshadowed under the tide of gendered attacks.
She is best known for her pioneering work fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
The Fog Begins to Lift
In the time since achieving her goal, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose support helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.
She added that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the flight, such as spotlight on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.
The Historic Journey
The fully automated New Shepard rocket departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that exceeded the Kármán line of space.
The group of women also featured leaders in different industries.
The company behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company founded by a well-known tech mogul.