Astronaut Discloses Depression Following ‘Tsunami of Harassment Following Journey
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.
The 34-year-old activist – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also featured well-known figures.
The mission was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a social media post, recalling a phone call from a mission companion in the period after the flight.
She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Buried Under Misogyny
Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and operated research during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her lab work and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her roots – was buried under the tide of sexist vitriol.
She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work fighting for justice for survivors of assault.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
A Path to Recovery
In the time since reaching space, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose kindness helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.
She concluded that amid the criticism, considerable good had emerged from the mission, such as elevated attention for her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.
About the Mission
The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that passed the Kármán line of space.
The group of women also comprised leaders in multiple disciplines.
The company behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company established by a well-known tech mogul.
