Astronaut Reveals Depression After Wave of Online Abuse Following Journey
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her battle with depression after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse 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 short-duration mission in the spring, which also featured well-known figures.
The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, referring to 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”.
“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Buried Under Misogyny
The researcher, who has focused her career on female health science and conducted tests during the flight, said everything she had worked for – including her scientific research and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her roots – was drowned out under the tide of misogyny.
She is best known for her pioneering work championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.
A Path to Recovery
Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose kindness were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.
She noted that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the experience, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
Flight Details
The self-operating spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that passed the Kármán line of space.
The team of pioneers also comprised accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.
The company behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
