Space Traveler Reveals Depression Following Wave of Backlash Following Journey
A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her battle with depression after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
The 34-year-old activist – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also included high-profile passengers.
The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, referring to a phone call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the landing.
She characterized the news reports and online discourse as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on female health science and performed experiments during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her scientific research and years of training to the historic significance of her heritage – was buried under the deluge of gendered attacks.
She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
The Fog Begins to Lift
In the time since fulfilling her dream, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose support helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she said.
She noted that even with the backlash, important benefits had resulted from the flight, including spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.
About the Mission
The fully automated New Shepard rocket departed its launch site in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that passed the edge of space.
The diverse crew also featured accomplished professionals from different industries.
The enterprise behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company launched by a Amazon founder.
