Space Traveler Shares Depression In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse After Historic Trip
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the wake 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 April, which also featured high-profile passengers.
The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a social media post, describing a phone call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the flight.
She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
The researcher, who has focused her career on women's health research and performed experiments during the mission, said everything she had worked for – from her studies and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her background – was drowned out under the tide of misogyny.
She is best known for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of survivors of assault.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.
A Path to Recovery
Months following reaching space, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose support helped save her. “You all saved me,” she wrote.
She added that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the experience, such as spotlight on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.
The Historic Journey
The self-operating New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that crossed the edge of space.
The team of pioneers also included accomplished professionals from various fields.
The enterprise behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company founded by a well-known tech mogul.
