Space Traveler Shares Emotional Distress Following Wave of Backlash Post-Spaceflight
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.
Amanda Nguyen – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also included celebrity crewmates.
The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a public message, describing a phone call from a fellow crew member in the days following the flight.
She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.
“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she revealed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
The researcher, who has focused her career on gynecological science and conducted tests during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her lab work and astronaut training to the historic significance of her roots – was drowned out under the avalanche of misogyny.
She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.
Her own goal of reaching space was paused after an attack during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.
A Path to Recovery
Months following fulfilling her dream, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose support pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she wrote.
She concluded that amid the criticism, important benefits had emerged from the mission, including elevated attention for her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.
Flight Details
The fully automated spacecraft launched from Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that passed the edge of space.
The group of women also comprised experts in multiple disciplines.
The enterprise behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
