Crew Member Discloses Mental Health Struggle After ‘Tsunami of Harassment After Historic Trip
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also carried high-profile passengers.
The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a online statement, describing a phone call from a mission companion in the period after the journey.
She characterized the press attention and digital reaction 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.”
Buried Under Misogyny
Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and operated research during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her scientific research and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her background – was overshadowed under the tide of sexist vitriol.
She is best known for her pioneering work fighting for justice for survivors of assault.
Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
The Fog Begins to Lift
Now, eight months after reaching space, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the supporters whose support pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.
She concluded that despite the negativity, considerable good had emerged from the experience, such as increased focus on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
The Historic Journey
The computer-piloted spacecraft departed Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the edge of outer space.
The team of pioneers also included experts in multiple disciplines.
The venture behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
