Astronaut Reveals Depression In the Wake of Deluge of Backlash Post-Spaceflight
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
Amanda Nguyen – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also featured high-profile passengers.
The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a online statement, describing a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the days following the landing.
She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“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 mission, said everything she had worked for – including her scientific research and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her roots – was drowned out under the tide of sexist vitriol.
She is best known for her pioneering work championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.
Her own goal of reaching space was paused after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
A Path to Recovery
Months following fulfilling her dream, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the followers whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she said.
She noted that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the flight, including elevated attention for her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
Flight Details
The fully automated spacecraft departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that passed the Kármán line of space.
The team of pioneers also comprised experts in multiple disciplines.
The company behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
