Astronaut Reveals Emotional Distress Following ‘Tsunami of Harassment Following Journey
A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also featured high-profile passengers.
The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, recalling a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the period after the flight.
She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy 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 confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to female health science and operated research during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her scientific research and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was overshadowed under the avalanche of misogyny.
She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for survivors of assault.
Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
A Path to Recovery
In the time since fulfilling her dream, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the supporters whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.
She noted that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the mission, such as increased focus on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.
The Historic Journey
The fully automated New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.
The team of pioneers also comprised accomplished professionals from various fields.
The venture behind the mission is a private space firm founded by a well-known tech mogul.