Astronaut Reveals Depression After ‘Tsunami of Backlash Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after facing 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 brief journey to space in the spring, which also featured celebrity crewmates.

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

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, describing a check-in call from a mission companion in the days following the journey.

She described the press attention and digital reaction 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.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and performed experiments during the flight, said everything she had worked for – including her lab work and astronaut training to the historic significance of her roots – was buried under the tide of misogyny.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.

Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following achieving her goal, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the followers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she said.

She concluded that amid the criticism, important benefits had come out of the flight, including spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The self-operating New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that crossed the Kármán line of outer space.

The team of pioneers also comprised experts in multiple disciplines.

The company behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company established by a Amazon founder.