Astronaut Discloses Depression Following Wave of Online Abuse After Historic Trip
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.
Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also carried well-known figures.
The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a public message, recalling a check-in call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the landing.
She described the news reports and online discourse as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“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.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
The researcher, who has focused her career on gynecological science and performed experiments during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her studies and years of training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was buried under the tide of sexist vitriol.
She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.
Her own goal of reaching space was paused after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.
A Path to Recovery
Months following reaching space, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the followers whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.
She added that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the flight, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
The Historic Journey
The self-operating New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.
The group of women also featured experts in different industries.
The venture behind the flight is a private space firm launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
