Crew Member Discloses Emotional Distress After ‘Tsunami of Backlash Following Journey
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her battle with depression after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also featured high-profile passengers.
The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, recalling a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the landing.
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.”
Buried Under Misogyny
The researcher, who has focused her career on women's health research and performed experiments during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her studies and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was overshadowed under the avalanche of gendered attacks.
She is widely recognized for her pioneering work championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.
Finding Solid Ground
Months following fulfilling her dream, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the supporters whose support were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.
She noted that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the flight, such as increased focus on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.
Flight Details
The computer-piloted spacecraft departed its launch site in April, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of space.
The team of pioneers also featured experts in various fields.
The venture behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company established by a well-known tech mogul.