Space Traveler Shares Mental Health Struggle Following Wave of Backlash Following Journey
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 – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in the spring, which also carried celebrity crewmates.
The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, describing a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the days following the landing.
She characterized the press attention and digital reaction as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Buried Under Misogyny
Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in female health science and conducted tests during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her studies and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her roots – was buried under the deluge of gendered attacks.
She is best known for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of survivors of assault.
Her own goal of reaching space was paused after an attack during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
The Fog Begins to Lift
Months following reaching space, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the supporters whose support pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.
She added that even with the backlash, considerable good had come out of the flight, such as increased focus on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.
About the Mission
The fully automated New Shepard rocket departed Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that crossed the edge of outer space.
The group of women also featured leaders in different industries.
The venture behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a well-known tech mogul.
