Space Traveler Shares Emotional Distress Following Wave of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.
Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also carried high-profile passengers.
The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, referring to a phone call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the landing.
She described the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
The researcher, who has conducted studies in women's health research and conducted tests during the mission, said everything she had worked for – from her scientific research and years of training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was overshadowed under the deluge of gendered attacks.
She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.
A Path to Recovery
Months following achieving her goal, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the followers whose kindness helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.
She added 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 departed Texas in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the edge of space.
The group of women also featured accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.
The venture behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company established by a Amazon founder.
