Astronaut Shares Mental Health Struggle Following ‘Tsunami of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her battle with depression after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also featured high-profile passengers.

The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, describing a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the days following the landing.

She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she revealed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has conducted studies in women's health research and performed experiments during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her lab work and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was drowned out under the deluge of misogyny.

She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after an attack during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following fulfilling her dream, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the followers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.

She added that amid the criticism, considerable good had come out of the experience, such as elevated attention for her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that passed the edge of space.

The group of women also included leaders in multiple disciplines.

The enterprise behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company established by a well-known tech mogul.