Space Traveler Reveals Emotional Distress After Deluge of Backlash Post-Spaceflight
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her battle with depression after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also carried high-profile passengers.
The mission was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a public message, recalling a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the period after the landing.
She characterized the news reports and online discourse as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.
“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she confessed. “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 conducted tests during the mission, said everything she had worked for – including her lab work and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her heritage – was buried under the tide of misogyny.
She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of survivors of assault.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after an attack during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
The Fog Begins to Lift
Months following fulfilling her dream, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose kindness pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she said.
She added that despite the negativity, important benefits had resulted from the flight, including increased focus on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.
Flight Details
The fully automated New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of space.
The team of pioneers also included experts in various fields.
The company behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a Amazon founder.
