Astronaut Reveals Emotional Distress In the Wake of Deluge of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her battle with depression after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also carried high-profile passengers.

The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a online statement, describing a check-in call from a mission companion in the days following the landing.

She described the news reports and online discourse as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on female health science and conducted tests during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her lab work and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her background – was overshadowed under the tide of misogyny.

She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after an attack during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.

Finding Solid Ground

In the time since fulfilling her dream, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the supporters whose support pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she said.

She concluded that despite the negativity, important benefits had resulted from the mission, such as elevated attention for her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

The self-operating New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that crossed the edge of space.

The team of pioneers also comprised accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.

The company behind the mission is a private space firm established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.