Astronaut Shares Mental Health Struggle After Wave of Harassment Post-Spaceflight
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also featured high-profile passengers.
The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a social media post, describing a check-in call from a mission companion in the days following the flight.
She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she revealed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Buried Under Misogyny
The researcher, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and conducted tests during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her scientific research and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her roots – was drowned out under the deluge of sexist vitriol.
She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work championing the cause of survivors of assault.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after an attack during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.
The Fog Begins to Lift
Months following reaching space, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the supporters whose kindness helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she said.
She noted that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the experience, such as increased focus on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.
About the Mission
The self-operating New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.
The diverse crew also comprised experts in various fields.
The enterprise behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company launched by a well-known tech mogul.
