Astronaut Shares Emotional Distress In the Wake of Wave of Online Abuse After Historic Trip
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her battle with depression after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse in the wake 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 featured well-known figures.
The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, recalling a phone call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the landing.
She described the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.
“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.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her lab work and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her roots – was drowned out under the deluge of sexist vitriol.
She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.
Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
The Fog Begins to Lift
Months following fulfilling her dream, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the supporters whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.
She added that amid the criticism, considerable good had resulted from the mission, such as increased focus on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.
About the Mission
The fully automated New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the edge of outer space.
The group of women also included leaders in multiple disciplines.
The enterprise behind the flight is a private space firm founded by a well-known tech mogul.
