Crew Member Reveals Emotional Distress Following ‘Tsunami of Backlash Following Journey
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also included high-profile passengers.
The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, referring to a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the landing.
She described the news reports and online discourse 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 wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
The researcher, who has dedicated her work to female health science and conducted tests during the mission, said everything she had worked for – from her scientific research and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her roots – was buried under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.
She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
A Path to Recovery
Months following fulfilling her dream, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose kindness helped save her. “You all saved me,” she said.
She concluded that even with the backlash, important benefits had come out of the experience, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and platforms for her activism.
The Historic Journey
The self-operating spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that passed the edge of space.
The diverse crew also comprised leaders in multiple disciplines.
The enterprise behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a Amazon founder.
