Crew Member Reveals Depression After ‘Tsunami of Harassment After Historic Trip
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also featured celebrity crewmates.
The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a social media post, referring to a phone call from a mission companion in the days following the flight.
She described the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.
“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said everything she had worked for – including her lab work and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her background – was drowned out under the tide of sexist vitriol.
She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.
A Path to Recovery
Months following reaching space, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose support pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.
She noted that amid the criticism, considerable good had come out of the flight, such as spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.
The Historic Journey
The fully automated spacecraft lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the Kármán line of outer space.
The team of pioneers also featured experts in multiple disciplines.
The company behind the flight is a private space firm established by a well-known tech mogul.
