Astronaut Shares Depression In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Backlash Post-Spaceflight
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism 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 brief journey to space in April, which also carried celebrity crewmates.
The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, recalling a phone call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the flight.
She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.
“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Buried Under Misogyny
Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on women's health research and performed experiments during the mission, said everything she had worked for – including her studies and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her background – was overshadowed under the tide of sexist vitriol.
She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
A Path to Recovery
Months following achieving her goal, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the well-wishers whose support were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she wrote.
She concluded that amid the criticism, important benefits had emerged from the experience, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.
The Historic Journey
The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.
The diverse crew also comprised accomplished professionals from various fields.
The company behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
