Astronaut Reveals Emotional Distress After Wave of Online Abuse Following Journey
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also featured high-profile passengers.
The mission was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a online statement, referring to a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the flight.
She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“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
Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in female health science and operated research during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her studies and years of training to the personal milestone of her roots – was buried under the avalanche of misogyny.
She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.
Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.
A Path to Recovery
Months following reaching space, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she wrote.
She noted that amid the criticism, important benefits had emerged from the experience, including elevated attention for her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
The Historic Journey
The self-operating New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that passed the Kármán line of space.
The group of women also featured experts in different industries.
The enterprise behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company founded by a well-known tech mogul.
