Astronaut Discloses Emotional Distress In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse After Historic Trip
A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.
Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also carried celebrity crewmates.
The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and environmental 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 torrent of sexist abuse.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a public message, referring to a phone call from a fellow crew member in the days following the flight.
She described the news reports and online discourse 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 revealed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
The researcher, who has conducted studies in women's health research and conducted tests during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her lab work and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her heritage – was buried under the tide of sexist vitriol.
She is best known for her pioneering work championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.
Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after an attack during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.
Finding Solid Ground
In the time since reaching space, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the followers whose kindness helped save her. “You all saved me,” she wrote.
She noted that amid the criticism, important benefits had resulted from the mission, including spotlight on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.
Flight Details
The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the edge of space.
The diverse crew also included experts in multiple disciplines.
The venture behind the flight is a private space firm launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
