Astronaut Shares Depression In the Wake of Deluge of Harassment Post-Spaceflight
A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also carried well-known figures.
The mission was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, 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 unprecedented psychological assault.
“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she revealed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Buried Under Misogyny
The researcher, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and performed experiments during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her scientific research and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her background – was overshadowed under the tide of gendered attacks.
She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for survivors of assault.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.
Finding Solid Ground
Months following reaching space, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the well-wishers whose support pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.
She added that despite the negativity, considerable good had come out of the mission, such as elevated attention for her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.
The Historic Journey
The self-operating New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that passed the internationally recognized boundary of space.
The diverse crew also included accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.
The company behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company founded by a Amazon founder.
