Crew Member Discloses Emotional Distress After ‘Tsunami of Harassment After Historic Trip
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
Amanda Nguyen – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also featured well-known figures.
The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, recalling a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the journey.
She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.
“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Buried Under Misogyny
Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on gynecological science and performed experiments during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her lab work and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her heritage – was drowned out under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.
She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.
Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after an attack during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
Finding Solid Ground
Months following reaching space, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the supporters whose support helped save her. “You all saved me,” she said.
She added that amid the criticism, considerable good had resulted from the flight, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and platforms for her activism.
The Historic Journey
The computer-piloted spacecraft departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.
The group of women also included leaders in multiple disciplines.
The enterprise behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
