Astronaut Reveals Emotional Distress After Wave of Backlash Post-Spaceflight
A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
Amanda Nguyen – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also featured high-profile passengers.
The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, referring to a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the aftermath of the landing.
She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
The researcher, who has conducted studies in female health science and operated research during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her lab work and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her background – was buried under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.
She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of survivors of assault.
Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
A Path to Recovery
In the time since fulfilling her dream, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose support pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.
She concluded that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the flight, 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 six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that crossed the Kármán line of space.
The team of pioneers also comprised leaders in various fields.
The company behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
