Space Traveler Shares Mental Health Struggle After Deluge of Backlash Post-Spaceflight
A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding 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 in April, which also featured celebrity crewmates.
The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a public message, describing a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the days following the flight.
She characterized the news reports and online discourse as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“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.”
Buried Under Misogyny
The researcher, who has dedicated her work to female health science and conducted tests during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her lab work and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her roots – was overshadowed under the tide of sexist vitriol.
She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.
Her own goal of reaching space was paused after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
Finding Solid Ground
In the time since reaching space, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the followers whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.
She added that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had come out of the mission, including increased focus on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.
The Historic Journey
The self-operating spacecraft lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that passed the edge of outer space.
The diverse crew also comprised experts in different industries.
The venture behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company founded by a Amazon founder.
