Astronaut Reveals Depression In the Wake of Deluge of Backlash Post-Spaceflight
A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after facing 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 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also included celebrity crewmates.
The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a social media post, referring to a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the period after the landing.
She described the press attention and digital reaction 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 wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
The researcher, who has conducted studies in women's health research and operated research during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her lab work and astronaut training to the historic significance of her roots – was overshadowed under the deluge of sexist vitriol.
She is best known for her pioneering work protecting the rights of survivors of assault.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
A Path to Recovery
In the time since fulfilling her dream, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.
She concluded that amid the criticism, considerable good had resulted from the experience, such as spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.
The Historic Journey
The computer-piloted spacecraft departed its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.
The team of pioneers also included leaders in multiple disciplines.
The company behind the flight is a private space firm founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
