Space Traveler Shares Depression In the Wake of Wave of Backlash Post-Spaceflight
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also included well-known figures.
The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, describing a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the period after the flight.
She portrayed 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.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
The researcher, who has focused her career on gynecological science and performed experiments during the mission, said every professional achievement – including her studies and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was buried under the avalanche of misogyny.
She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for survivors of assault.
Her own goal of reaching space was paused after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
Finding Solid Ground
Months following reaching space, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose support were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she said.
She added that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the flight, including increased focus on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.
The Historic Journey
The self-operating New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that passed the edge of space.
The diverse crew also featured leaders in different industries.
The venture behind the mission is a private space firm established by a Amazon founder.
