Crew Member Discloses Emotional Distress Following ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse Following Journey
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also carried well-known figures.
The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a social media post, describing a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the period after the landing.
She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she confessed. “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 female health science and operated research during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her studies and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her roots – was buried under the deluge of sexist vitriol.
She is best known for her pioneering work protecting the rights of survivors of assault.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after an attack during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.
A Path to Recovery
Now, eight months after reaching space, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “You all saved me,” she wrote.
She concluded that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the flight, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
About the Mission
The self-operating New Shepard rocket departed Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the Kármán line of space.
The diverse crew also included accomplished professionals from different industries.
The venture behind the flight is a private space firm launched by a Amazon founder.