Astronaut Reveals Depression Following Wave of Backlash Post-Spaceflight
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her battle with depression after enduring 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 brief journey to space in April, which also carried high-profile passengers.
The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a social media post, recalling a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the period after the flight.
She characterized the press attention and digital reaction 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. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
The researcher, who has focused her career on women's health research and performed experiments during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her lab work and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her background – was drowned out under the tide of gendered attacks.
She is widely recognized for her pioneering work championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
Finding Solid Ground
In the time since fulfilling her dream, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the followers whose support were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.
She added that despite the negativity, considerable good had emerged from the flight, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.
About the Mission
The self-operating New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of space.
The group of women also comprised leaders in different industries.
The venture behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company launched by a well-known tech mogul.
