Space Traveler Reveals Emotional Distress After Deluge of Online Abuse Following Journey
A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.
Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also carried celebrity crewmates.
The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost 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 “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, referring to a phone call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the flight.
She portrayed the news reports and online discourse as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she revealed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
The researcher, who has conducted studies in female health science and performed experiments during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her scientific research and years of training to the historic significance of her background – was overshadowed under the deluge of misogyny.
She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for survivors of assault.
Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.
The Fog Begins to Lift
Months following reaching space, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose kindness helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she said.
She noted that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had come out of the flight, including increased focus on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.
About the Mission
The computer-piloted spacecraft departed Texas in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the Kármán line of outer space.
The diverse crew also comprised leaders in different industries.
The venture behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
