Crew Member Discloses Mental Health Struggle Following Wave of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight
A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her battle with depression after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.
Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also featured well-known figures.
The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, recalling a check-in call from a mission companion in the days following the flight.
She characterized the news reports and online discourse as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she revealed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Buried Under Misogyny
Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in women's health research and performed experiments during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her scientific research and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her background – was buried under the deluge of misogyny.
She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of survivors of assault.
Her own goal of reaching space was paused after an attack during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
The Fog Begins to Lift
In the time since achieving her goal, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose support were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.
She added that despite the negativity, important benefits had resulted from the flight, such as spotlight on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.
Flight Details
The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the edge of space.
The diverse crew also comprised leaders in various fields.
The enterprise behind the flight is a private space firm launched by a well-known tech mogul.
