Space Traveler Shares Depression In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Harassment Post-Spaceflight
A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after facing a “tsunami of harassment” 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 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also carried well-known figures.
The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, recalling a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the days following the journey.
She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction 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 focused her career on women's health research and operated research during the mission, said everything she had worked for – from her lab work and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her background – was drowned out under the avalanche of misogyny.
She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after an attack during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
A Path to Recovery
Months following reaching space, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose support were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.
She added that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had come out of the mission, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
The Historic Journey
The self-operating New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.
The group of women also comprised experts in multiple disciplines.
The company behind the mission is a private space firm founded by a Amazon founder.
