Astronaut Shares Mental Health Struggle Following Deluge of Online Abuse After Historic Trip
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.
Amanda Nguyen – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also carried high-profile passengers.
The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, referring to a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of 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 revealed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
The researcher, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her lab work and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her background – was drowned out under the tide of gendered attacks.
She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.
Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.
A Path to Recovery
Months following achieving her goal, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose support pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she wrote.
She noted that even with the backlash, important benefits had resulted from the mission, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
Flight Details
The fully automated spacecraft departed its launch site in April, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that passed the edge of outer space.
The group of women also included accomplished professionals from different industries.
The company behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a Amazon founder.