A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
The 34-year-old activist – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in the spring, which also included well-known figures.
The mission was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, recalling a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the journey.
She characterized the press attention and digital reaction 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 wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
The researcher, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and performed experiments during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her studies and astronaut training to the historic significance of her heritage – was buried under the deluge of misogyny.
She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after an attack during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
Months following fulfilling her dream, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the supporters whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.
She added that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the mission, such as increased focus on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.
The self-operating spacecraft lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the Kármán line of outer space.
The team of pioneers also comprised leaders in various fields.
The company behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company established by a well-known tech mogul.
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