Space Traveler Shares Emotional Distress In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse Following Journey
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her battle with depression after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also carried well-known figures.
The mission was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a public message, describing a check-in call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the landing.
She portrayed the news reports and online discourse as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.
“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she revealed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on gynecological science and conducted tests during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her scientific research and astronaut training to the historic significance of her heritage – was buried under the avalanche of misogyny.
She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for survivors of assault.
Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
A Path to Recovery
In the time since reaching space, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose support helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she said.
She added that even with the backlash, important benefits had come out of the flight, such as spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.
Flight Details
The computer-piloted spacecraft departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the Kármán line of space.
The team of pioneers also included accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.
The venture behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
