Astronaut Reveals Depression Following Deluge of Harassment Post-Spaceflight
A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her battle with depression after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
Amanda Nguyen – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also featured well-known figures.
The mission was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, recalling 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 barrage beyond typical human coping.
“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 everything she had worked for – including her studies and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her roots – was overshadowed under the tide of misogyny.
She is best known for her pioneering work championing the cause of survivors of assault.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.
A Path to Recovery
In the time since fulfilling her dream, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the supporters whose kindness pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she said.
She concluded that despite the negativity, important benefits had come out of the experience, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
Flight Details
The computer-piloted spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the Kármán line of outer space.
The group of women also comprised accomplished professionals from various fields.
The enterprise behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
