Space Traveler Discloses Depression After Wave of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in the spring, which also included high-profile passengers.

The mission was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a online statement, describing a phone call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the landing.

She described the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she revealed. “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 gynecological science and operated research during the mission, said everything she had worked for – from her scientific research and years of training to the personal milestone of her roots – was drowned out under the tide of sexist vitriol.

She is widely recognized for her pioneering work championing the cause of survivors of assault.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.

Finding Solid Ground

In the time since achieving her goal, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose kindness were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She noted that despite the negativity, considerable good had emerged from the experience, including increased focus on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The self-operating spacecraft lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The group of women also included leaders in various fields.

The enterprise behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company launched by a well-known tech mogul.