Space Traveler Shares Mental Health Struggle Following Deluge of Online Abuse After Historic Trip
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after enduring 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 short-duration mission in April, which also carried celebrity crewmates.
The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, recalling a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the aftermath of the journey.
She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.
“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.”
Buried Under Misogyny
Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on gynecological science and conducted tests during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her scientific research and years of training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was buried under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.
She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
The Fog Begins to Lift
Months following achieving her goal, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose support helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she said.
She concluded that amid the criticism, important benefits had emerged from the flight, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
The Historic Journey
The self-operating spacecraft launched from its launch site in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.
The diverse crew also included accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.
The enterprise behind the flight is a private space firm launched by a well-known tech mogul.
