Space Traveler Discloses Mental Health Struggle Following Wave of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her battle with depression after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also included high-profile passengers.
The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, recalling a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the period after the flight.
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. “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 every professional achievement – including her studies and astronaut training to the historic significance of her background – was drowned out under the tide of sexist vitriol.
She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
A Path to Recovery
In the time since achieving her goal, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the supporters whose kindness pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.
She noted that amid the criticism, considerable good had emerged from the mission, such as spotlight on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.
About the Mission
The self-operating New Shepard rocket departed Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that passed the internationally recognized boundary of space.
The group of women also featured leaders in different industries.
The enterprise behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company founded by a well-known tech mogul.
