Crew Member Discloses Depression After ‘Tsunami of Backlash Post-Spaceflight
A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
The 34-year-old activist – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also included high-profile passengers.
The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, describing 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 “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.
“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she revealed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Buried Under Misogyny
The researcher, who has conducted studies in female health science and operated research during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her studies and years of training to the personal milestone of her heritage – was overshadowed under the tide of sexist vitriol.
She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work championing the cause of survivors of assault.
Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
A Path to Recovery
Months following reaching space, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the well-wishers whose kindness were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.
She concluded that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the experience, including increased focus on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.
The Historic Journey
The self-operating spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that crossed the edge of space.
The team of pioneers also included leaders in various fields.
The venture behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company launched by a Amazon founder.
