Space Traveler Shares Depression After ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse Following Journey
A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her battle with depression after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
The 34-year-old activist – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also carried high-profile passengers.
The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a social media post, describing a phone call from a mission companion in the period after the journey.
She described the news reports and online discourse as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Buried Under Misogyny
The researcher, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her studies and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her roots – was overshadowed under the deluge of misogyny.
She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.
Her own goal of reaching space was paused after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
Finding Solid Ground
Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose support helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she said.
She concluded that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the flight, such as elevated attention for her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.
The Historic Journey
The computer-piloted spacecraft lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that passed the edge of space.
The diverse crew also included experts in multiple disciplines.
The enterprise behind the flight is a private space firm founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.