Astronaut Discloses Emotional Distress Following Deluge of Backlash Post-Spaceflight
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also featured celebrity crewmates.
The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a public message, describing a phone call from a mission companion in the days following the landing.
She portrayed the news reports and online discourse 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 wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said everything she had worked for – including her studies and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was overshadowed under the tide of gendered attacks.
She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
A Path to Recovery
Months following reaching space, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she said.
She added that amid the criticism, considerable good had emerged from the mission, such as increased focus on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.
About the Mission
The fully automated spacecraft launched from Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of space.
The diverse crew also comprised leaders in various fields.
The enterprise behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a well-known tech mogul.
