Crew Member Shares Depression Following Deluge of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight
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 – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also included high-profile passengers.
The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, recalling a phone call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the landing.
She portrayed the news reports and online discourse as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and operated research during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her scientific research and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her background – was drowned out under the deluge of gendered attacks.
She is best known for her pioneering work championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.
Her own goal of reaching space was deferred 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 has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the supporters whose kindness helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.
She noted that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the mission, including spotlight on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.
The Historic Journey
The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the edge of outer space.
The group of women also featured experts in multiple disciplines.
The venture behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
