Astronaut Discloses Depression After ‘Tsunami of Harassment After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after facing a “tsunami of harassment” 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 short-duration mission earlier this year, which also included celebrity crewmates.

The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a social media post, recalling a check-in call from a fellow crew member 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. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and performed experiments during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her studies and years of training to the symbolic importance of her roots – was buried under the deluge of misogyny.

She is best known for her pioneering work championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.

Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after an attack during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since achieving her goal, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the supporters whose kindness pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.

She concluded that even with the backlash, considerable good had come out of the experience, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

About the Mission

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that exceeded the Kármán line of space.

The team of pioneers also included experts in different industries.

The enterprise behind the flight is a private space firm launched by a well-known tech mogul.