Astronaut Reveals Depression In the Wake of Wave of Online Abuse Following Journey
A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.
Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also carried high-profile passengers.
The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, describing a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the journey.
She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
The researcher, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and conducted tests during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her lab work and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her roots – was overshadowed under the tide of sexist vitriol.
She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.
The Fog Begins to Lift
Months following reaching space, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the followers whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she said.
She added that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the mission, such as spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.
About the Mission
The fully automated spacecraft lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that passed the internationally recognized boundary of space.
The diverse crew also comprised experts in multiple disciplines.
The company behind the flight is a private space firm established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
