Crew Member Discloses Depression In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Harassment Following Journey
A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.
The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in the spring, which also featured well-known figures.
The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a online statement, recalling a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the landing.
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 wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on women's health research and performed experiments during the mission, said everything she had worked for – including her lab work and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her background – was overshadowed under the tide of sexist vitriol.
She is widely recognized for her pioneering work protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
A Path to Recovery
In the time since fulfilling her dream, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose kindness were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.
She added that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the experience, such as increased focus on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
About the Mission
The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that crossed the Kármán line of outer space.
The team of pioneers also included experts in various fields.
The company behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company launched by a Amazon founder.