Crew Member Discloses Mental Health Struggle After Deluge of Harassment Post-Spaceflight
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also included celebrity crewmates.
The mission was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, describing a check-in call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the journey.
She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in women's health research and conducted tests during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her studies and years of training to the symbolic importance of her roots – was buried under the deluge of sexist vitriol.
She is widely recognized for her pioneering work fighting for justice for survivors of assault.
Her own goal of reaching space was paused after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.
Finding Solid Ground
Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she said.
She concluded that amid the criticism, important benefits had emerged from the mission, including elevated attention for her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
About the Mission
The self-operating spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that passed the Kármán line of outer space.
The team of pioneers also included leaders in different industries.
The company behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company established by a Amazon founder.
