Astronaut Reveals Emotional Distress After Deluge of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also carried celebrity crewmates.
The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a online statement, describing a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the flight.
She described the press attention and digital reaction as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.
“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” 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 conducted tests during the mission, said every professional achievement – including her lab work and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her roots – was drowned out under the tide of misogyny.
She is widely recognized for her pioneering work fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.
The Fog Begins to Lift
Months following fulfilling her dream, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.
She noted that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the flight, including elevated attention for her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.
The Historic Journey
The self-operating New Shepard rocket departed Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that passed the Kármán line of space.
The diverse crew also comprised leaders in various fields.
The enterprise behind the flight is a private space firm launched by a Amazon founder.
