Crew Member Discloses Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse Following Journey
A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.
Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also carried well-known figures.
The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a social media post, recalling a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the period after the flight.
She described the news reports and online discourse as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.
“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” 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 women's health research and operated research during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her studies and years of training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was overshadowed under the deluge of sexist vitriol.
She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work fighting for justice for survivors of assault.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
A Path to Recovery
In the time since achieving her goal, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.
She concluded that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the mission, such as spotlight 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 six-woman crew on a short trip that passed the internationally recognized boundary of space.
The group of women also comprised accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.
The venture behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.