Astronaut Shares Depression In the Wake of Deluge of Backlash After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in the spring, which also included celebrity crewmates.

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

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, referring to a phone call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the journey.

She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and conducted tests during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her lab work and astronaut training to the historic significance of her background – was drowned out under the deluge of misogyny.

She is best known for her pioneering work protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

Finding Solid Ground

In the time since fulfilling her dream, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose kindness were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.

She concluded that despite the negativity, considerable good had resulted from the flight, such as spotlight on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

The fully automated spacecraft launched from its launch site in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that passed the Kármán line of space.

The diverse crew also featured experts in different industries.

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