Space Traveler Shares Depression In the Wake of Wave of Online Abuse After Historic Trip
A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in the spring, which also included high-profile passengers.
The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, describing a phone call from a mission companion in the days following the landing.
She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.
“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her lab work and years of training to the symbolic importance of her roots – was drowned out under the tide of sexist vitriol.
She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.
Her own goal of reaching space was paused after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
A Path to Recovery
In the time since reaching space, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “You all saved me,” she said.
She added that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had come out of the flight, such as elevated attention for her women's health research and platforms for her activism.
The Historic Journey
The fully automated New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of space.
The diverse crew also comprised leaders in different industries.
The company behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
