Space Traveler Shares Emotional Distress Following Deluge of Online Abuse After Historic Trip
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
Amanda Nguyen – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also featured celebrity crewmates.
The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a public message, describing a phone call from a fellow crew member in the period after the flight.
She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.
“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she revealed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
The researcher, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said everything she had worked for – including her lab work and years of training to the personal milestone of her background – was overshadowed under the deluge of misogyny.
She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of survivors of assault.
Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
The Fog Begins to Lift
In the time since fulfilling her dream, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the supporters whose support pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she wrote.
She noted that despite the negativity, considerable good had resulted from the flight, including spotlight on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
The Historic Journey
The self-operating spacecraft departed its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that exceeded the edge of space.
The group of women also comprised accomplished professionals from various fields.
The company behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company founded by a well-known tech mogul.