Crew Member Discloses Depression After Deluge of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight
A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.
The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also featured celebrity crewmates.
The mission was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a online statement, describing a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the period after the flight.
She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy 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. “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 operated research during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her lab work and astronaut training to the historic significance of her heritage – was drowned out under the avalanche of gendered attacks.
She is best known for her pioneering work protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
The Fog Begins to Lift
Months following fulfilling her dream, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the supporters whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.
She added that amid the criticism, important benefits had resulted from the experience, including increased focus on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.
The Historic Journey
The self-operating spacecraft lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that crossed the edge of outer space.
The diverse crew also included accomplished professionals from different industries.
The enterprise behind the mission is a private space firm established by a Amazon founder.
