A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also included celebrity crewmates.
The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a social media post, recalling a phone call from a fellow crew member in the days following the journey.
She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on gynecological science and operated research during the mission, said every professional achievement – including her lab work and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her roots – was buried under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.
She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
Months following fulfilling her dream, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose support were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she said.
She noted that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had come out of the mission, such as spotlight on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
The fully automated New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the edge of outer space.
The team of pioneers also comprised experts in different industries.
The company behind the flight is a private space firm established by a Amazon founder.
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Brian Hernandez
Brian Hernandez
Brian Hernandez
Brian Hernandez