Space Traveler Discloses Emotional Distress Following Deluge of Backlash Following Journey
A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.
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 high-profile passengers.
The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a public message, describing a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the days following the flight.
She described the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy 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 wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Buried Under Misogyny
Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on female health science and performed experiments during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her lab work and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her background – was overshadowed under the tide of sexist vitriol.
She is best known for her pioneering work championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.
Her own goal of reaching space was paused after an attack during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.
A Path to Recovery
In the time since achieving her goal, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose support were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.
She concluded that amid the criticism, important benefits had resulted from the mission, such as spotlight on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.
About the Mission
The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket departed Texas in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of space.
The diverse crew also included leaders in different industries.
The enterprise behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
