Space Traveler Reveals Depression After Wave of Harassment Following Journey
A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.
Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also carried high-profile passengers.
The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, recalling a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the days following the journey.
She described 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 revealed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Buried Under Misogyny
Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in women's health research and operated research during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her studies and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her roots – was buried under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.
She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
Finding Solid Ground
Months following fulfilling her dream, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose kindness helped save her. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.
She noted that even with the backlash, considerable good had come out of the experience, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.
The Historic Journey
The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that passed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.
The diverse crew also featured accomplished professionals from various fields.
The enterprise behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company established by a well-known tech mogul.
