Crew Member Shares Depression After Deluge of Harassment Post-Spaceflight
A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also carried celebrity crewmates.
The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who became 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,” she recounted in a social media post, recalling a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the period after the flight.
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. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
The researcher, who has conducted studies in women's health research and conducted tests during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her scientific research and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her roots – was overshadowed under the tide of gendered attacks.
She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of survivors of assault.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.
The Fog Begins to Lift
Months following reaching space, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the well-wishers whose support pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she said.
She noted that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the mission, including increased focus on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
The Historic Journey
The fully automated spacecraft departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the edge of outer space.
The group of women also featured leaders in various fields.
The enterprise behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.