Astronaut Discloses Depression In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her battle with depression after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also included celebrity crewmates.

The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, recalling a phone call from a mission companion in the period after the flight.

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

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

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to female health science and operated research during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her studies and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her background – was drowned out under the avalanche of misogyny.

She is best known for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

A Path to Recovery

Months following fulfilling her dream, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose support helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.

She added that despite the negativity, considerable good had come out of the mission, including increased focus on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that passed the Kármán line of space.

The diverse crew also comprised experts in various fields.

The company behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company established by a Amazon founder.