Astronaut Reveals Mental Health Struggle After ‘Tsunami of Harassment Post-Spaceflight
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.
The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in the spring, which also carried celebrity crewmates.
The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, describing a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the period after the journey.
She described 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. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
The researcher, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and performed experiments during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her studies and astronaut training to the historic significance of her heritage – was drowned out under the tide of misogyny.
She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
The Fog Begins to Lift
In the time since achieving her goal, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the followers whose support helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she said.
She added that despite the negativity, important benefits had resulted from the mission, including elevated attention for her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.
The Historic Journey
The fully automated spacecraft departed its launch site in April, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.
The group of women also included leaders in different industries.
The company behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company founded by a well-known tech mogul.
