Crew Member Shares Depression In the Wake of Deluge of Harassment Post-Spaceflight
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her battle with depression after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
The 34-year-old activist – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also featured celebrity crewmates.
The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, describing a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the journey.
She described 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 confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
The researcher, who has focused her career on gynecological science and performed experiments during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her scientific research and years of training to the personal milestone of her background – was overshadowed under the tide of gendered attacks.
She is best known for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for survivors of assault.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.
Finding Solid Ground
Months following reaching space, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose kindness helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.
She noted that amid the criticism, important benefits had come out of the experience, such as spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.
About the Mission
The self-operating spacecraft departed Texas in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the edge of outer space.
The team of pioneers also included leaders in multiple disciplines.
The venture behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company launched by a Amazon founder.
