Space Traveler Reveals Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse Following Journey
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her battle with depression after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also featured high-profile passengers.
The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a social media post, referring to a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the aftermath of the landing.
She described 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 wrote. “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 gynecological science and performed experiments during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her lab work and years of training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was overshadowed under the avalanche of gendered attacks.
She is best known 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.
A Path to Recovery
Now, eight months after reaching space, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose support pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.
She noted that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the flight, including elevated attention for her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.
The Historic Journey
The self-operating New Shepard rocket departed its launch site in April, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.
The diverse crew also included accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.
The company behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company founded by a well-known tech mogul.
