Crew Member Discloses Depression In the Wake of Wave of Harassment After Historic Trip
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
The 34-year-old activist – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also included well-known figures.
The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, referring to a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the days following the flight.
She portrayed 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 revealed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and operated research during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her lab work and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her background – was overshadowed under the tide of misogyny.
She is widely recognized for her pioneering work championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after an attack during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
A Path to Recovery
In the time since reaching space, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the followers whose kindness helped save her. “You all saved me,” she said.
She concluded that despite the negativity, considerable good had come out of the flight, such as elevated attention for her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.
Flight Details
The self-operating spacecraft lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that passed the edge of outer space.
The group of women also comprised leaders in different industries.
The venture behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
