Astronaut Discloses Emotional Distress In the Wake of Deluge of Backlash Post-Spaceflight
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
Amanda Nguyen – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in the spring, which also featured well-known figures.
The mission was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a public message, describing 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”.
“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
The researcher, who has focused her career on female health science and conducted tests during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her studies and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her roots – was buried under the avalanche of gendered attacks.
She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of survivors of assault.
Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
A Path to Recovery
Now, eight months after reaching space, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the well-wishers whose support were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she wrote.
She concluded that amid the criticism, important benefits had come out of the mission, including spotlight on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
About the Mission
The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that passed the Kármán line of space.
The group of women also comprised experts in different industries.
The company behind the flight is a private space firm launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
