Space Traveler Discloses Mental Health Struggle After ‘Tsunami of Backlash Post-Spaceflight
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also carried high-profile passengers.
The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, recalling a phone call from a mission companion in the days following the journey.
She described the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she revealed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
The researcher, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and operated research during the mission, said every professional achievement – including her scientific research and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her roots – was buried under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.
She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of survivors of assault.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
Finding Solid Ground
In the time since fulfilling her dream, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the supporters whose support helped save her. “You all saved me,” she said.
She concluded that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the flight, including increased focus on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.
About the Mission
The self-operating New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.
The team of pioneers also featured experts in multiple disciplines.
The enterprise behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
