Crew Member Reveals Depression After ‘Tsunami of Harassment Following Journey
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.
Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also included celebrity crewmates.
The mission was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, describing a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the period after the journey.
She described the news reports and online discourse as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.
“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
The researcher, who has dedicated her work to female health science and conducted tests during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her studies and years of training to the historic significance of her roots – was overshadowed under the deluge of gendered attacks.
She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of survivors of assault.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.
The Fog Begins to Lift
In the time since fulfilling her dream, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose support pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she said.
She concluded that even with the backlash, considerable good had come out of the flight, such as spotlight on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.
The Historic Journey
The computer-piloted spacecraft lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the edge of space.
The diverse crew also included accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.
The venture behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
