Space Traveler Shares Mental Health Struggle After Wave of Backlash Post-Spaceflight
A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her battle with depression after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also featured well-known figures.
The mission was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, referring to a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the days following the landing.
She portrayed 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 revealed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
The researcher, who has focused her career on female health science and performed experiments during the mission, said everything she had worked for – from her studies and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her background – was drowned out under the deluge of gendered attacks.
She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.
Her own goal of reaching space was paused after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
The Fog Begins to Lift
Months following achieving her goal, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the supporters whose kindness helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she said.
She noted that amid the criticism, important benefits had come out of the flight, such as increased focus on 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 short trip that passed the edge of outer space.
The diverse crew also included accomplished professionals from different industries.
The company behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company launched by a Amazon founder.