Crew Member Shares Emotional Distress In the Wake of Wave of Backlash Following Journey
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.
Amanda Nguyen – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also carried celebrity crewmates.
The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, referring to a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the flight.
She characterized the press attention and digital reaction as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she revealed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her lab work and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her background – was overshadowed under the tide of gendered attacks.
She is widely recognized for her pioneering work championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after an attack during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.
A Path to Recovery
In the time since reaching space, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the supporters whose kindness were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.
She concluded that despite the negativity, considerable good had come out of the experience, such as elevated attention for her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.
Flight Details
The self-operating New Shepard rocket departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that passed the edge of space.
The team of pioneers also included leaders in different industries.
The enterprise behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company launched by a Amazon founder.
