Astronaut Shares Depression Following Deluge of Online Abuse Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after facing a “tsunami of harassment” 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 April, which also included high-profile passengers.

The mission was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, recalling a phone call from a fellow crew member in the days following 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 wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in female health science and operated research during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her lab work and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her roots – was overshadowed under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is best known for her pioneering work fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

Finding Solid Ground

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose support pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she wrote.

She noted that even with the backlash, important benefits had resulted from the mission, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

Flight Details

The fully automated spacecraft departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that passed the Kármán line of space.

The diverse crew also included accomplished professionals from different industries.

The company behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company launched by a well-known tech mogul.