Astronaut Shares Emotional Distress Following ‘Tsunami of Harassment Following Journey
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.
The 34-year-old activist – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also carried celebrity crewmates.
The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, describing a check-in call from a mission companion in the days following the journey.
She described the press attention and digital reaction 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 revealed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and conducted tests during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her studies and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her background – was buried under the deluge of misogyny.
She is best known for her pioneering work protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.
Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
A Path to Recovery
In the time since achieving her goal, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose support pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.
She added that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had come out of the mission, including increased focus on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.
Flight Details
The fully automated spacecraft departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the Kármán line of space.
The group of women also included leaders in different industries.
The company behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company established by a well-known tech mogul.
