Space Traveler Discloses Emotional Distress After ‘Tsunami of Harassment After Historic Trip
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also carried high-profile passengers.
The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, referring to a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the period after the flight.
She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she revealed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to female health science and performed experiments during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her studies and years of training to the personal milestone of her heritage – was buried under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.
She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of survivors of assault.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
The Fog Begins to Lift
In the time since reaching space, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.
She added that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the mission, including spotlight on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.
Flight Details
The self-operating New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that passed the edge of space.
The diverse crew also included leaders in multiple disciplines.
The enterprise behind the flight is a private space firm launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
