Space Traveler Shares Depression In the Wake of Deluge of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight
A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also featured high-profile passengers.
The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a public message, describing a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the landing.
She described the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she revealed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and operated research during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her lab work and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her roots – was overshadowed under the deluge of sexist vitriol.
She is widely recognized for her pioneering work fighting for justice for survivors of assault.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
Finding Solid Ground
In the time since reaching space, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the followers whose support were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.
She concluded that amid the criticism, considerable good had emerged from the flight, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
Flight Details
The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that passed the edge of outer space.
The team of pioneers also featured leaders in various fields.
The enterprise behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company founded by a well-known tech mogul.