Space Traveler Reveals Depression After ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her battle with depression after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
Amanda Nguyen – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also included high-profile passengers.
The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, referring to a phone call from a fellow crew member in the period after the landing.
She characterized the press attention and digital reaction as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Buried Under Misogyny
Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on gynecological science and performed experiments during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her scientific research and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her roots – was drowned out under the deluge of gendered attacks.
She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.
Her own goal of reaching space was paused after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
Finding Solid Ground
In the time since fulfilling her dream, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the supporters whose support pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she wrote.
She noted that amid the criticism, considerable good had resulted from the flight, such as spotlight on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.
The Historic Journey
The self-operating spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.
The group of women also comprised accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.
The company behind the flight is a private space firm established by a Amazon founder.
