Astronaut Shares Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Deluge of Online Abuse Following Journey
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also carried high-profile passengers.
The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a public message, referring to a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the period after the flight.
She characterized the press attention and digital reaction as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in female health science and operated research during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her scientific research and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her background – was drowned out under the deluge of sexist vitriol.
She is widely recognized for her pioneering work 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.
The Fog Begins to Lift
Months following fulfilling her dream, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the supporters whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.
She concluded that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the experience, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and platforms for her activism.
About the Mission
The fully automated spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.
The group of women also comprised experts in different industries.
The company behind the mission is a private space firm founded by a well-known tech mogul.