Crew Member Discloses Emotional Distress Following Deluge of Backlash After Historic Trip
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also featured celebrity crewmates.
The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, referring to a phone call from a fellow crew member in the period after the journey.
She described the news reports and online discourse 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 confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
The researcher, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her lab work and years of training to the historic significance of her heritage – was buried under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.
She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
A Path to Recovery
Months following reaching space, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the followers whose support were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she said.
She noted that even with the backlash, considerable good had resulted from the experience, such as spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.
About the Mission
The self-operating New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that passed the edge of space.
The group of women also featured leaders in multiple disciplines.
The venture behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company launched by a well-known tech mogul.
