Astronaut Reveals Depression After Wave of Backlash Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her battle with depression after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also carried high-profile passengers.

The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who became 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,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, recalling a phone call from a fellow crew member in the period after the landing.

She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has focused her career on gynecological science and performed experiments during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her scientific research and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her heritage – was buried under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of survivors of assault.

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

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since reaching space, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the supporters whose kindness pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she wrote.

She noted that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had come out of the experience, including increased focus on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

About the Mission

The computer-piloted spacecraft departed Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that passed the edge of space.

The diverse crew also featured accomplished professionals from various fields.

The enterprise behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company founded by a well-known tech mogul.