Astronaut Discloses Depression Following Deluge of Harassment Post-Spaceflight
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
Amanda Nguyen – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also featured high-profile passengers.
The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, recalling a phone call from a fellow crew member in the period after the landing.
She portrayed the news reports and online discourse as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she revealed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
The researcher, who has focused her career on women's health research and conducted tests during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her scientific research and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her roots – was buried under the deluge of gendered attacks.
She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for survivors of assault.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.
A Path to Recovery
In the time since reaching space, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose kindness were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.
She noted that even with the backlash, important benefits had emerged from the flight, such as increased focus on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.
Flight Details
The computer-piloted spacecraft launched from its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that crossed the Kármán line of space.
The group of women also comprised accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.
The company behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company established by a Amazon founder.