Crew Member Reveals Depression After Deluge of Backlash Following Journey
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her battle with depression after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in the spring, which also carried celebrity crewmates.
The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, describing a check-in call from a mission companion in the days following the landing.
She described the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Buried Under Misogyny
Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in female health science and operated research during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her studies and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her background – was overshadowed under the tide of misogyny.
She is best known for her pioneering work fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.
Finding Solid Ground
In the time since fulfilling her dream, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose support were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.
She added that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had come out of the flight, including elevated attention for her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.
Flight Details
The self-operating spacecraft departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that crossed the Kármán line of outer space.
The group of women also comprised experts in different industries.
The venture behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
