Astronaut Shares Depression After ‘Tsunami of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her battle with depression after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also carried well-known figures.

The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, referring to a phone call from a mission companion in the period after the landing.

She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“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 focused her career on gynecological science and operated research during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her studies and years of training to the symbolic importance of her background – was buried under the tide of sexist vitriol.

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

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after reaching space, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose support helped save her. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She concluded that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had come out of the experience, including spotlight on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

About the Mission

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the edge of space.

The team of pioneers also comprised leaders in various fields.

The enterprise behind the flight is a private space firm established by a well-known tech mogul.