Space Traveler Discloses Emotional Distress After ‘Tsunami of Harassment Post-Spaceflight
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.
The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also carried celebrity crewmates.
The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, describing a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the flight.
She described the news reports and online discourse as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.
“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she confessed. “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 women's health research and operated research during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her studies and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her background – was buried under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.
She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.
The Fog Begins to Lift
In the time since reaching space, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.
She concluded that even with the backlash, important benefits had resulted from the mission, such as spotlight on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
Flight Details
The computer-piloted spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that passed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.
The diverse crew also included experts in various fields.
The enterprise behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company established by a Amazon founder.
