Space Traveler Discloses Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Wave of Harassment Following Journey
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in the spring, which also carried well-known figures.
The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, describing a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the period after the landing.
She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.
“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on female health science and conducted tests during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her studies and years of training to the symbolic importance of her background – was overshadowed under the tide of misogyny.
She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
The Fog Begins to Lift
In the time since achieving her goal, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the followers whose support were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.
She added that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the experience, including spotlight on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.
About the Mission
The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that crossed the edge of space.
The team of pioneers also comprised accomplished professionals from various fields.
The enterprise behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.