Astronaut Reveals Mental Health Struggle After Wave of Harassment After Historic Trip
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also included high-profile passengers.
The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, recalling a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the period after the flight.
She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
The researcher, who has conducted studies in female health science and operated research during the mission, said everything she had worked for – from her scientific research and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her roots – was buried under the tide of gendered attacks.
She is widely recognized for her pioneering work championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.
Finding Solid Ground
Months following fulfilling her dream, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the followers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.
She added that despite the negativity, important benefits had resulted from the flight, including increased focus on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
Flight Details
The self-operating New Shepard rocket departed its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that exceeded the Kármán line of space.
The group of women also comprised accomplished professionals from different industries.
The enterprise behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
