Astronaut Reveals Depression In the Wake of Wave of Harassment After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also featured high-profile passengers.

The mission was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, recalling a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the period after the flight.

She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“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

The researcher, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and operated research during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her lab work and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her background – was buried under the tide of gendered attacks.

She is best known for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after an attack during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

Finding Solid Ground

In the time since reaching space, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the supporters whose kindness helped save her. “You all saved me,” she wrote.

She added that even with the backlash, important benefits had come out of the flight, including increased focus on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

Flight Details

The self-operating spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that passed the internationally recognized boundary of space.

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

The enterprise behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.