Space Traveler Discloses Mental Health Struggle Following Wave of Harassment Post-Spaceflight
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
The 34-year-old activist – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also included well-known figures.
The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, referring to a check-in call from a mission companion in the days following the flight.
She characterized the news reports and online discourse as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Buried Under Misogyny
The researcher, who has conducted studies in female health science and operated research during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her scientific research and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was drowned out under the tide of gendered attacks.
She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.
Finding Solid Ground
Now, eight months after reaching space, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the followers whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she wrote.
She concluded that amid the criticism, considerable good had resulted from the flight, including increased focus on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.
Flight Details
The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that passed the Kármán line of outer space.
The diverse crew also featured leaders in different industries.
The enterprise behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company founded by a Amazon founder.