Crew Member Discloses Mental Health Struggle After Wave of Online Abuse After Historic Trip
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her battle with depression after facing 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 in April, which also included well-known figures.
The mission was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, recalling a phone call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the landing.
She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she revealed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Buried Under Misogyny
The researcher, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and performed experiments during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her scientific research and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her heritage – was overshadowed under the tide of gendered attacks.
She is best known for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after an attack during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.
The Fog Begins to Lift
Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the supporters whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she said.
She concluded that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the mission, including spotlight on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.
Flight Details
The computer-piloted spacecraft launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the Kármán line of space.
The diverse crew also featured experts in multiple disciplines.
The enterprise behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company established by a well-known tech mogul.
