Astronaut Discloses Emotional Distress In the Wake of Deluge of Online Abuse Following Journey
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after facing 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 the spring, which also included high-profile passengers.
The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated 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,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, referring to a phone call from a mission companion in the period after the journey.
She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on women's health research and performed experiments during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her lab work and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her background – was buried under the avalanche of gendered attacks.
She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.
Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
The Fog Begins to Lift
In the time since reaching space, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the supporters whose support helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she said.
She added that despite the negativity, important benefits had come out of the experience, including increased focus on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.
Flight Details
The computer-piloted spacecraft departed its launch site in April, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of space.
The team of pioneers also comprised experts in multiple disciplines.
The enterprise behind the mission is a private space firm established by a Amazon founder.