Crew Member Shares Mental Health Struggle Following Wave of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after enduring a massive wave of online abuse 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 in the spring, which also carried well-known figures.
The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, referring to 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 wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Buried Under Misogyny
Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on female health science and operated research during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her lab work and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her roots – was drowned out under the deluge of gendered attacks.
She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
A Path to Recovery
Months following fulfilling her dream, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose kindness helped save her. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.
She added that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the experience, such as increased focus on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.
About the Mission
The fully automated New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that exceeded the edge of space.
The diverse crew also featured experts in various fields.
The enterprise behind the flight is a private space firm launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
