Astronaut Discloses Depression In the Wake of Wave of Online Abuse Following Journey
A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.
Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also carried high-profile passengers.
The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, referring to a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the period after the flight.
She characterized the press attention and digital reaction as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
The researcher, who has focused her career on gynecological science and performed experiments during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her lab work and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her heritage – was drowned out under the deluge of gendered attacks.
She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
Finding Solid Ground
Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the supporters whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she said.
She added that despite the negativity, considerable good had resulted from the flight, including elevated attention for her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.
About the Mission
The self-operating New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.
The team of pioneers also featured leaders in different industries.
The company behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company launched by a well-known tech mogul.