Crew Member Discloses Depression Following ‘Tsunami of Harassment Following Journey
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also featured celebrity crewmates.
The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement 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 check-in call from a mission companion in the period after the journey.
She described the press attention and digital reaction as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she revealed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Buried Under Misogyny
Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on women's health research and conducted tests during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her lab work and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her background – was drowned out under the avalanche of misogyny.
She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of survivors of assault.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
Finding Solid Ground
Months following reaching space, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the supporters whose support pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she said.
She noted that even with the backlash, important benefits had resulted from the experience, such as spotlight on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.
About the Mission
The computer-piloted spacecraft lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that crossed the Kármán line of space.
The diverse crew also featured leaders in multiple disciplines.
The enterprise behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
