Space Traveler Shares Mental Health Struggle Following Deluge of Harassment After Historic Trip
A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her battle with depression after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
The 34-year-old activist – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also featured well-known figures.
The mission was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, describing a phone call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the flight.
She characterized the news reports and online discourse as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.
“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Buried Under Misogyny
Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and performed experiments during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her lab work and years of training to the symbolic importance of her roots – was buried under the avalanche of gendered attacks.
She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of survivors of assault.
Her own goal of reaching space was paused after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
Finding Solid Ground
Months following reaching space, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the well-wishers 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, such as spotlight on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.
The Historic Journey
The fully automated spacecraft launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that passed the edge of outer space.
The team of pioneers also included experts in various fields.
The venture behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company launched by a Amazon founder.