Astronaut Reveals Depression In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Backlash After Historic Trip
A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also included celebrity crewmates.
The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, referring to a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the period after the landing.
She characterized the news reports and online discourse as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she revealed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her studies and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her background – was overshadowed under the deluge of misogyny.
She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for survivors of assault.
Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.
Finding Solid Ground
In the time since reaching space, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the followers whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she said.
She added that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the experience, such as spotlight on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.
Flight Details
The computer-piloted spacecraft departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that passed the Kármán line of outer space.
The team of pioneers also included experts in different industries.
The enterprise behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company founded by a Amazon founder.
