Crew Member Discloses Mental Health Struggle Following ‘Tsunami of Harassment Post-Spaceflight
A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.
Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also included celebrity crewmates.
The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, describing a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the landing.
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 confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Buried Under Misogyny
Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on gynecological science and operated research during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her lab work and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her roots – was overshadowed under the avalanche of misogyny.
She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for survivors of assault.
Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
A Path to Recovery
Now, eight months after reaching space, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the followers whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she said.
She concluded that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the experience, such as elevated attention for her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.
About the Mission
The self-operating New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that passed the Kármán line of outer space.
The team of pioneers also comprised leaders in different industries.
The enterprise behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company launched by a Amazon founder.
