Crew Member Discloses Emotional Distress After Deluge of Backlash After Historic Trip
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her battle with depression after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.
Amanda Nguyen – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also included high-profile passengers.
The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, referring to a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the period after the landing.
She described 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 conducted studies in women's health research and performed experiments during the mission, said every professional achievement – including her scientific research and years of training to the symbolic importance of her background – was overshadowed under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.
She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.
Her own goal of reaching space was paused after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
The Fog Begins to Lift
In the time since fulfilling her dream, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.
She concluded that despite the negativity, important benefits had resulted from the experience, including elevated attention for her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.
About the Mission
The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of space.
The group of women also comprised experts in various fields.
The company behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a well-known tech mogul.
