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 aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also carried celebrity crewmates.

The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, describing a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the journey.

She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and performed experiments during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her scientific research and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her roots – was overshadowed under the tide of sexist vitriol.

She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after an attack during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following fulfilling her dream, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose kindness helped save her. “You all saved me,” she said.

She concluded that even with the backlash, considerable good had emerged from the experience, such as increased focus on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

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

The group of women also included accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.

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