Astronaut Discloses Depression After ‘Tsunami of Backlash After Historic Trip
A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath 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 carried high-profile passengers.
The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, describing a check-in call from a mission companion in the days following the journey.
She characterized the press attention and digital reaction as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on women's health research and performed experiments during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her scientific research and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her background – was overshadowed under the deluge of misogyny.
She is best known for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
Finding Solid Ground
Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the supporters whose kindness were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.
She noted that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the mission, including increased focus on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.
The Historic Journey
The self-operating New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that passed the edge of space.
The team of pioneers also comprised experts in different industries.
The enterprise behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
