Astronaut Shares Emotional Distress In the Wake of Deluge of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.
Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also featured well-known figures.
The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, describing a phone call from a fellow crew member in the days following the journey.
She characterized 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 wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
The researcher, who has conducted studies in women's health research and performed experiments during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her studies and years of training to the personal milestone of her heritage – was overshadowed under the avalanche of misogyny.
She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for survivors of assault.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after an attack during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
The Fog Begins to Lift
In the time since achieving her goal, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose support were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.
She noted that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had come out of the mission, including increased focus on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.
The Historic Journey
The self-operating spacecraft departed Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that passed the Kármán line of outer space.
The team of pioneers also included accomplished professionals from various fields.
The venture behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company established by a well-known tech mogul.
