Crew Member Discloses Emotional Distress In the Wake of Deluge of Backlash Post-Spaceflight
A Vietnamese-American astronaut 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 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also included celebrity crewmates.
The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, describing a phone call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the flight.
She characterized the news reports and online discourse 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 confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in female health science and conducted tests during the mission, said everything she had worked for – including her lab work and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her roots – was overshadowed under the tide of sexist vitriol.
She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
A Path to Recovery
Now, eight months after reaching space, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the supporters whose support pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she said.
She concluded that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the experience, such as increased focus on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
About the Mission
The self-operating New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that passed the edge of outer space.
The diverse crew also included accomplished professionals from different industries.
The venture behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company established by a Amazon founder.
