Space Traveler Discloses Emotional Distress In the Wake of Deluge of Online Abuse Following Journey
A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her battle with depression after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in the spring, which also featured high-profile passengers.
The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a social media post, recalling a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the days following the flight.
She characterized the news reports and online discourse as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she revealed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
The researcher, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and conducted tests during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her studies and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her heritage – was overshadowed under the avalanche of gendered attacks.
She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of survivors of assault.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
Finding Solid Ground
Months following reaching space, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the supporters whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she said.
She added that despite the negativity, important benefits had emerged from the experience, including elevated attention for her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.
About the Mission
The fully automated New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.
The group of women also featured accomplished professionals from various fields.
The enterprise behind the flight is a private space firm founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
