Space Traveler Discloses Mental Health Struggle After Deluge of Online Abuse After Historic Trip
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
Amanda Nguyen – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also featured celebrity crewmates.
The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, recalling a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the period after the journey.
She described 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 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 female health science and conducted tests during the mission, said everything she had worked for – including her scientific research and years of training to the personal milestone of her roots – was overshadowed under the avalanche of misogyny.
She is best known for her pioneering work championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.
Her own goal of reaching space was paused after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.
The Fog Begins to Lift
In the time since reaching space, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.
She noted that even with the backlash, considerable good had come out of the flight, including increased focus on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.
Flight Details
The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket departed its launch site in April, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.
The group of women also comprised leaders in various fields.
The company behind the flight is a private space firm launched by a well-known tech mogul.
