Crew Member Discloses Depression In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight
A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.
Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also included celebrity crewmates.
The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, describing a phone call from a fellow crew member in the period after the journey.
She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to female health science and performed experiments during the mission, said every professional achievement – including her lab work and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her background – was overshadowed under the tide of sexist vitriol.
She is best known for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of survivors of assault.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.
Finding Solid Ground
Months following reaching space, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the followers whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.
She added that despite the negativity, considerable good had emerged from the flight, including spotlight on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.
The Historic Journey
The computer-piloted spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that crossed the Kármán line of outer space.
The diverse crew also included experts in different industries.
The company behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company launched by a well-known tech mogul.
