Space Traveler Shares Emotional Distress Following ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse After Historic Trip
A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
Amanda Nguyen – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also carried well-known figures.
The mission was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, referring to a check-in call from a mission companion in the period after the landing.
She characterized the press attention and digital reaction as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
The researcher, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and performed experiments during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her studies and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was buried under the tide of sexist vitriol.
She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work championing the cause of survivors of assault.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
Finding Solid Ground
Months following reaching space, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the supporters whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.
She noted that despite the negativity, considerable good had come out of the flight, including increased focus on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.
About the Mission
The fully automated New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that crossed the edge of space.
The diverse crew also included leaders in different industries.
The enterprise behind the flight is a private space firm established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.