Space Traveler Discloses Mental Health Struggle After Wave of Online Abuse Following Journey
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also carried celebrity crewmates.
The mission was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, describing a phone call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the landing.
She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction 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 revealed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Buried Under Misogyny
Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on women's health research and conducted tests during the mission, said every professional achievement – including her scientific research and years of training to the historic significance of her roots – was buried under the tide of gendered attacks.
She is best known for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
The Fog Begins to Lift
Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the supporters whose support helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she said.
She concluded that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the mission, including spotlight on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.
Flight Details
The fully automated spacecraft lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that exceeded the Kármán line of space.
The team of pioneers also featured leaders in multiple disciplines.
The company behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a Amazon founder.
