Astronaut Discloses Depression After Wave of Online Abuse After Historic Trip
A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her battle with depression after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also carried high-profile passengers.
The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a public message, recalling a phone call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the journey.
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. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
The researcher, who has focused her career on women's health research and conducted tests during the mission, said everything she had worked for – including her lab work and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her heritage – was overshadowed under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.
She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
Finding Solid Ground
Months following achieving her goal, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose support were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.
She noted that even with the backlash, considerable good had emerged from the experience, such as spotlight on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.
Flight Details
The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.
The diverse crew also featured accomplished professionals from different industries.
The company behind the mission is a private space firm founded by a well-known tech mogul.