Astronaut Discloses Depression In the Wake of Wave of Harassment Post-Spaceflight
A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also included well-known figures.
The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a social media post, referring to a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the days following the landing.
She portrayed the news reports and online discourse 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.”
Buried Under Misogyny
The researcher, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and operated research during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her lab work and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her roots – was buried under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.
She is best known for her pioneering work championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
Finding Solid Ground
Now, eight months after reaching space, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.
She noted that amid the criticism, considerable good had resulted from the mission, including increased focus on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.
Flight Details
The self-operating spacecraft lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that passed the edge of space.
The team of pioneers also comprised accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.
The company behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
