Astronaut Shares Depression Following Wave of Online Abuse Following Journey
A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.
The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also included celebrity crewmates.
The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment 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 check-in call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the flight.
She described the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy 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 wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
The researcher, who has focused her career on female health science and conducted tests during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her studies and years of training to the personal milestone of her background – was overshadowed under the tide of gendered attacks.
She is widely recognized for her pioneering work protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.
Finding Solid Ground
Months following reaching space, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the supporters whose support pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.
She concluded that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the experience, including increased focus on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.
Flight Details
The self-operating spacecraft lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.
The group of women also comprised accomplished professionals from various fields.
The venture behind the mission is a private space firm founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.