Space Traveler Reveals Depression After ‘Tsunami of Harassment Following Journey
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also included well-known figures.
The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, referring to a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the period after the journey.
She characterized the news reports and online discourse as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
The researcher, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her lab work and years of training to the historic significance of her heritage – was overshadowed under the tide of sexist vitriol.
She is best known for her pioneering work championing the cause of survivors of assault.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
Finding Solid Ground
In the time since reaching space, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the followers whose support were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she wrote.
She noted that amid the criticism, considerable good had come out of the experience, such as increased focus on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.
About the Mission
The fully automated New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that passed the Kármán line of space.
The diverse crew also featured leaders in multiple disciplines.
The enterprise behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company founded by a Amazon founder.
