Crew Member Shares Depression After Deluge of Harassment Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her battle with depression after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also featured high-profile passengers.

The mission was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.

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 told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, recalling a phone call from a fellow crew member in the period after the journey.

She portrayed the news reports and online discourse as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and performed experiments during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her lab work and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her background – was drowned out under the deluge of misogyny.

She is widely recognized for her pioneering work protecting the rights of survivors of assault.

Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since reaching space, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the supporters whose support helped save her. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She concluded that even with the backlash, important benefits had come out of the mission, including spotlight on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The self-operating spacecraft departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that exceeded 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 established by a Amazon founder.