Astronaut Discloses Emotional Distress Following ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in the spring, which also included celebrity crewmates.
The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, referring to a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the period after the journey.
She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
The researcher, who has conducted studies in female health science and operated research during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her studies and years of training to the personal milestone of her roots – was drowned out under the tide of misogyny.
She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
Finding Solid Ground
Months following reaching space, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the supporters whose support were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.
She added that despite the negativity, considerable good had resulted from the flight, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.
About the Mission
The fully automated spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that passed the edge of outer space.
The diverse crew also included experts in multiple disciplines.
The company behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.