Astronaut Reveals Depression After Deluge of Backlash Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

The 34-year-old activist – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also carried high-profile passengers.

The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a social media post, describing a phone call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the flight.

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 revealed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to female health science and operated research during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her scientific research and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her roots – was buried under the deluge of gendered attacks.

She is best known for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

Finding Solid Ground

In the time since achieving her goal, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the followers whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She noted that despite the negativity, important benefits had resulted from the mission, such as spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The self-operating New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that passed the Kármán line of space.

The diverse crew also featured accomplished professionals from various fields.

The enterprise behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company established by a Amazon founder.