Crew Member Reveals Depression Following ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse Following Journey
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about 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 scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also featured well-known figures.
The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a public message, recalling a phone call from a mission companion in the period after the landing.
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 wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Buried Under Misogyny
The researcher, who has focused her career on women's health research and conducted tests during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her studies and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her heritage – was buried under the avalanche of gendered attacks.
She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.
Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
A Path to Recovery
Months following fulfilling her dream, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she said.
She added that despite the negativity, considerable good had resulted from the mission, including elevated attention for her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.
Flight Details
The self-operating spacecraft lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that passed the internationally recognized boundary of space.
The group of women also featured leaders in various fields.
The venture behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
