Astronaut Reveals Depression In the Wake of Wave of Online Abuse Following Journey
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.
Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also featured well-known figures.
The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, referring to a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the period after the landing.
She characterized the news reports and online discourse as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she revealed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
The researcher, who has dedicated her work to female health science and conducted tests during the flight, said everything she had worked for – including her scientific research and astronaut training to the historic significance of her roots – was drowned out under the deluge of misogyny.
She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after an attack during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.
Finding Solid Ground
Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the supporters whose support were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she said.
She added that amid the criticism, considerable good had resulted from the flight, including elevated attention for her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.
Flight Details
The fully automated New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that passed the edge of outer space.
The diverse crew also included accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.
The enterprise behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company launched by a well-known tech mogul.
