Crew Member Discloses Depression In the Wake of Deluge of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight
A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath 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 earlier this year, which also included well-known figures.
The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a public message, describing a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the period after the landing.
She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.
“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and performed experiments during the flight, said everything she had worked for – including her scientific research and astronaut training to the historic significance of her background – was drowned out under the avalanche of gendered attacks.
She is widely recognized for her pioneering work protecting the rights of survivors of assault.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
Finding Solid Ground
Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose kindness pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.
She added that even with the backlash, considerable good had emerged from the mission, such as elevated attention for her women's health research and platforms for her activism.
About the Mission
The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that crossed the edge of space.
The team of pioneers also comprised experts in multiple disciplines.
The venture behind the flight is a private space firm launched by a Amazon founder.