Astronaut Reveals Depression After ‘Tsunami of Backlash Following Journey
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also featured high-profile passengers.
The mission was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a social media post, recalling a phone call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the flight.
She portrayed the news reports and online discourse as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and operated research during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her scientific research and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her background – was buried under the deluge of misogyny.
She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.
A Path to Recovery
In the time since achieving her goal, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the well-wishers whose kindness helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she said.
She noted that even with the backlash, important benefits had come out of the flight, such as spotlight on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.
About the Mission
The computer-piloted spacecraft launched from Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of space.
The team of pioneers also featured experts in various fields.
The enterprise behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
