Space Traveler Reveals Depression After Deluge of Harassment Post-Spaceflight
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her battle with depression after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
Amanda Nguyen – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also featured well-known figures.
The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a public message, describing a phone call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the journey.
She characterized the news reports and online discourse as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Buried Under Misogyny
The researcher, who has focused her career on gynecological science and performed experiments during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her studies and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was overshadowed under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.
She is best known for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.
Finding Solid Ground
In the time since reaching space, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the followers whose kindness helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.
She noted that amid the criticism, important benefits had emerged from the experience, such as spotlight on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.
The Historic Journey
The fully automated spacecraft departed Texas in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that passed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.
The team of pioneers also comprised accomplished professionals from various fields.
The venture behind the flight is a private space firm launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
