Astronaut Shares Emotional Distress Following Deluge of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight
A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also featured celebrity crewmates.
The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as 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,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, recalling a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the aftermath of the flight.
She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
The researcher, who has conducted studies in female health science and operated research during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her lab work and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her heritage – was drowned out under the tide of gendered attacks.
She is best known for her pioneering work fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
A Path to Recovery
In the time since reaching space, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the followers whose kindness helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she said.
She added that even with the backlash, considerable good had come out of the experience, including elevated attention for her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.
About the Mission
The fully automated New Shepard rocket departed Texas in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that exceeded the Kármán line of space.
The diverse crew also included leaders in various fields.
The company behind the mission is a private space firm established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.