Crew Member Reveals Emotional Distress Following Deluge of Harassment Following Journey
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her battle with depression after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also carried high-profile passengers.
The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, referring to a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the days following the journey.
She described the press attention and digital reaction as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she revealed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
The researcher, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and performed experiments during the mission, said every professional achievement – including her studies and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her heritage – was drowned out under the tide of misogyny.
She is best known for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.
Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after an attack during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
A Path to Recovery
In the time since achieving her goal, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose support pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.
She noted that even with the backlash, important benefits had come out of the flight, including spotlight on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
Flight Details
The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that passed the Kármán line of outer space.
The group of women also included accomplished professionals from different industries.
The enterprise behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company founded by a Amazon founder.
