Astronaut Discloses Depression Following Wave of Harassment Post-Spaceflight
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her battle with depression after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also carried celebrity crewmates.
The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the experience, 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,” she recounted in a online statement, recalling a check-in call from a mission companion in the period after the flight.
She described the press attention and digital reaction 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. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on female health science and operated research during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her scientific research and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her heritage – was buried under the deluge of sexist vitriol.
She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of survivors of assault.
Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
Finding Solid Ground
Now, eight months after reaching space, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the supporters whose kindness pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she said.
She concluded that amid the criticism, considerable good had emerged from the experience, including spotlight on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.
Flight Details
The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of space.
The diverse crew also featured leaders in different industries.
The enterprise behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
