Astronaut Discloses Depression Following Deluge of Harassment Following Journey
A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
Amanda Nguyen – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also featured high-profile passengers.
The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a social media post, referring to a phone call from a fellow crew member in the days following the landing.
She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.
“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
Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on women's health research and operated research during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her studies and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her roots – was buried under the tide of misogyny.
She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for survivors of assault.
Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after an attack during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
Finding Solid Ground
In the time since fulfilling her dream, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the supporters whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she said.
She noted that despite the negativity, considerable good had come out of the flight, such as spotlight on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.
Flight Details
The fully automated New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that exceeded the Kármán line of outer space.
The team of pioneers also comprised accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.
The venture behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company launched by a Amazon founder.
