Space Traveler Shares Emotional Distress In the Wake of Deluge of Backlash After Historic Trip
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in the spring, which also featured high-profile passengers.
The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, recalling a check-in call from a mission companion in the days following the journey.
She characterized the news reports and online discourse as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Buried Under Misogyny
The researcher, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and performed experiments during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her lab work and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her heritage – was buried under the deluge of gendered attacks.
She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work fighting for justice for survivors of assault.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
A Path to Recovery
In the time since achieving her goal, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the followers whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.
She concluded that amid the criticism, considerable good had emerged from the mission, such as elevated attention for her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.
Flight Details
The computer-piloted spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that passed the internationally recognized boundary of space.
The group of women also featured accomplished professionals from various fields.
The company behind the flight is a private space firm founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
