Astronaut Reveals Depression In the Wake of Deluge of Harassment Post-Spaceflight
A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
Amanda Nguyen – celebrated 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 widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, describing a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the days following the landing.
She characterized the press attention and digital reaction as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and conducted tests during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her scientific research and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her heritage – was buried under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.
She is best known for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
The Fog Begins to Lift
Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the followers whose kindness were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.
She noted that even with the backlash, considerable good had resulted from the flight, such as spotlight on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
About the Mission
The fully automated New Shepard rocket departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that passed the Kármán line of outer space.
The diverse crew also comprised accomplished professionals from different industries.
The company behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company launched by a well-known tech mogul.
