Astronaut Discloses Depression In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Harassment Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her battle with depression after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in the spring, which also included high-profile passengers.

The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, referring to a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the days following the flight.

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 confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and conducted tests during the mission, said everything she had worked for – including her scientific research and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her roots – was overshadowed under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.

A Path to Recovery

In the time since achieving her goal, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.

She added that even with the backlash, important benefits had resulted from the flight, including elevated attention for her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The self-operating New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of space.

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

The enterprise behind the mission is a private space firm established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.