Space Traveler Discloses Emotional Distress Following ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse Following Journey
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in the spring, which also included high-profile passengers.
The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, referring to a phone call from a fellow crew member in the days following the journey.
She characterized the news reports and online discourse as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.
“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Buried Under Misogyny
Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to female health science and operated research during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her studies and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her background – was buried under the deluge of sexist vitriol.
She is best known for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
A Path to Recovery
Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the followers whose support helped save her. “You all saved me,” she said.
She concluded that even with the backlash, considerable good had resulted from the experience, such as increased focus on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.
About the Mission
The self-operating New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.
The diverse crew also featured leaders in different industries.
The company behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company established by a well-known tech mogul.
