Space Traveler Reveals Mental Health Struggle After ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight
A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.
Amanda Nguyen – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also featured high-profile passengers.
The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, 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 “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.
“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.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in women's health research and operated research during the flight, said everything she had worked for – including her studies and years of training to the personal milestone of her heritage – was overshadowed under the deluge of gendered attacks.
She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
The Fog Begins to Lift
Months following reaching space, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.
She concluded that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had come out of the flight, such as elevated attention for her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.
About the Mission
The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.
The diverse crew also included leaders in multiple disciplines.
The enterprise behind the flight is a private space firm established by a Amazon founder.
