Astronaut Reveals Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Harassment Post-Spaceflight
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.
The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also carried celebrity crewmates.
The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a online statement, describing a phone call from a mission companion in the period after the landing.
She characterized the news reports and online discourse 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 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 gynecological science and operated research during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her studies and astronaut training to the historic significance of her heritage – was drowned out under the tide of sexist vitriol.
She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
Finding Solid Ground
Months following achieving her goal, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the followers whose support helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she said.
She concluded that amid the criticism, important benefits had come out of the experience, such as increased focus on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
Flight Details
The self-operating New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that passed the edge of outer space.
The diverse crew also comprised accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.
The venture behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company launched by a Amazon founder.
