Astronaut Discloses Emotional Distress After Deluge of Online Abuse After Historic Trip
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her battle with depression after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also carried high-profile passengers.
The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who became 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,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, referring to a phone call from a mission companion in the days following the journey.
She characterized the press attention and digital reaction as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on gynecological science and performed experiments during the mission, said every professional achievement – including her scientific research and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was overshadowed under the deluge of gendered attacks.
She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after an attack during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
Finding Solid Ground
Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the supporters whose support pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.
She concluded that even with the backlash, considerable good had emerged from the experience, including elevated attention for her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.
About the Mission
The self-operating spacecraft departed its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that passed the Kármán line of space.
The diverse crew also comprised accomplished professionals from different industries.
The venture behind the mission is a private space firm founded by a well-known tech mogul.
