Space Traveler Reveals Mental Health Struggle Following Deluge of Harassment After Historic Trip
A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also featured well-known figures.
The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, recalling a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the period after the flight.
She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
The researcher, who has conducted studies in female health science and performed experiments during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her studies and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her background – was overshadowed under the tide of misogyny.
She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.
The Fog Begins to Lift
In the time since reaching space, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she said.
She concluded that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had come out of the experience, such as elevated attention for her women's health research and platforms for her activism.
The Historic Journey
The self-operating spacecraft lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of space.
The diverse crew also featured accomplished professionals from various fields.
The enterprise behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company established by a well-known tech mogul.
