Astronaut Reveals Depression In the Wake of Wave of Harassment Post-Spaceflight
A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also featured high-profile passengers.
The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, recalling a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the days following the landing.
She described the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on women's health research and conducted tests during the mission, said everything she had worked for – from her lab work and years of training to the historic significance of her roots – was buried under the avalanche of gendered attacks.
She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.
Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
The Fog Begins to Lift
In the time since reaching space, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose support were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.
She noted that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had come out of the mission, including increased focus on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.
The Historic Journey
The computer-piloted spacecraft launched from Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that exceeded the Kármán line of space.
The team of pioneers also comprised accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.
The enterprise behind the flight is a private space firm founded by a Amazon founder.
