Space Traveler Reveals Emotional Distress After ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse After Historic Trip
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after enduring 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 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also included well-known figures.
The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment 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 mission companion in the period after the journey.
She described 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 wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Buried Under Misogyny
Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in female health science and performed experiments during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her lab work and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her roots – was drowned out under the deluge of gendered attacks.
She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.
Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
A Path to Recovery
In the time since reaching space, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the supporters whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.
She concluded that despite the negativity, important benefits had come out of the flight, such as increased focus on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
About the Mission
The fully automated New Shepard rocket departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that exceeded the Kármán line of space.
The diverse crew also comprised experts in various fields.
The company behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company founded by a well-known tech mogul.