Astronaut Discloses Emotional Distress In the Wake of Wave of Online Abuse Following Journey
A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her battle with depression after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
Amanda Nguyen – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also carried well-known figures.
The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response 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 check-in call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the flight.
She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Buried Under Misogyny
Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on women's health research and operated research during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her lab work and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her heritage – was overshadowed under the tide of misogyny.
She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold 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 has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the supporters whose support were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.
She noted that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had come out of the experience, such as increased focus on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.
The Historic Journey
The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the Kármán line of space.
The diverse crew also featured experts in different industries.
The enterprise behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a well-known tech mogul.
