Crew Member Shares Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Deluge of Online Abuse After Historic Trip
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also featured high-profile passengers.
The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a online statement, recalling a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the aftermath of the flight.
She characterized the news reports and online discourse as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in women's health research and operated research during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her lab work and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was drowned out under the tide of misogyny.
She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
The Fog Begins to Lift
Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.
She concluded that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the experience, including increased focus on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.
Flight Details
The fully automated New Shepard rocket departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the edge of outer space.
The diverse crew also included accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.
The company behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company launched by a Amazon founder.
