Astronaut Shares Depression After ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse After Historic Trip
A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her battle with depression after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also featured well-known figures.
The mission was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a online statement, describing a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the period after the landing.
She described the press attention and digital reaction as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Buried Under Misogyny
Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her scientific research and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her roots – was drowned out under the tide of misogyny.
She is best known for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of survivors of assault.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
A Path to Recovery
Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the supporters whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.
She noted that despite the negativity, important benefits had come out of the experience, including elevated attention for her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
About the Mission
The self-operating New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that passed the Kármán line of outer space.
The group of women also comprised leaders in various fields.
The company behind the flight is a private space firm established by a Amazon founder.
