Space Traveler Shares Emotional Distress Following Deluge of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight
A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her battle with depression after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also carried high-profile passengers.
The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, recalling a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the days following the flight.
She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“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 focused her career on gynecological science and conducted tests during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her studies and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was overshadowed under the avalanche of misogyny.
She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of survivors of assault.
Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after an attack during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
A Path to Recovery
In the time since reaching space, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the followers whose kindness pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.
She noted that amid the criticism, important benefits had emerged from the mission, such as spotlight on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.
About the Mission
The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of space.
The team of pioneers also included leaders in different industries.
The venture behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
