Space Traveler Shares Emotional Distress After ‘Tsunami of Harassment Following Journey
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also featured well-known figures.
The mission was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, describing a phone call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the flight.
She described the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy 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 confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
The researcher, who has conducted studies in female health science and operated research during the mission, said everything she had worked for – from her studies and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her roots – was overshadowed under the avalanche of gendered attacks.
She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.
Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
Finding Solid Ground
Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose support helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.
She concluded that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had come out of the flight, including elevated attention for her scientific work and platforms for her activism.
About the Mission
The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the Kármán line of outer space.
The team of pioneers also included leaders in different industries.
The company behind the mission is a private space firm founded by a Amazon founder.
