Astronaut Shares Depression After ‘Tsunami of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also featured celebrity crewmates.

The mission was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, recalling a check-in call from a mission companion in the days following the journey.

She characterized the news reports and online discourse as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she revealed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has focused her career on gynecological science and performed experiments during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her lab work and years of training to the symbolic importance of her background – was overshadowed under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is best known for her pioneering work fighting for justice for survivors of assault.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

A Path to Recovery

Months following reaching space, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the followers whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.

She added that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the experience, such as spotlight on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

The self-operating spacecraft lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that crossed the Kármán line of outer space.

The group of women also featured accomplished professionals from various fields.

The venture behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company launched by a Amazon founder.