Crew Member Reveals Emotional Distress In the Wake of Deluge of Online Abuse Following Journey
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her battle with depression after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also included well-known figures.
The mission was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, describing a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the journey.
She characterized the press attention and digital reaction as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.
“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
The researcher, who has conducted studies in women's health research and performed experiments during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her scientific research and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her roots – was buried under the deluge of sexist vitriol.
She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.
Her own goal of reaching space was paused after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.
Finding Solid Ground
Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.
She concluded that amid the criticism, considerable good had come out of the mission, including spotlight on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.
The Historic Journey
The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that crossed the edge of outer space.
The diverse crew also featured experts in various fields.
The venture behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company founded by a Amazon founder.
