Astronaut Discloses Emotional Distress After Deluge of Online Abuse After Historic Trip
A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also featured well-known figures.
The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, 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 public message, recalling a phone call from a fellow crew member in the days following the journey.
She described the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Buried Under Misogyny
The researcher, who has focused her career on women's health research and conducted tests during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her scientific research and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was buried under the deluge of gendered attacks.
She is best known for her pioneering work protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
A Path to Recovery
Months following achieving her goal, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose support helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she said.
She added that despite the negativity, important benefits had resulted from the mission, such as spotlight on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.
Flight Details
The self-operating New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the edge of outer space.
The diverse crew also featured leaders in different industries.
The enterprise behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
