Astronaut Discloses Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Deluge of Harassment After Historic Trip
A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her battle with depression after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.
The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also featured high-profile passengers.
The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, referring to a phone call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the flight.
She characterized the news reports and online discourse as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she revealed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Buried Under Misogyny
The researcher, who has conducted studies in female health science and conducted tests during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her scientific research and astronaut training to the historic significance of her roots – was drowned out under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.
She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.
Her own goal of reaching space was paused after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
A Path to Recovery
In the time since achieving her goal, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.
She concluded that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the flight, such as increased focus on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.
The Historic Journey
The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket departed Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that passed the Kármán line of space.
The group of women also comprised accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.
The venture behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company established by a well-known tech mogul.
