Space Traveler Discloses Emotional Distress Following Deluge of Backlash Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also carried high-profile passengers.

The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, recalling a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the days following the journey.

She portrayed the news reports and online discourse 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 wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and operated research during the mission, said everything she had worked for – including her scientific research and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her background – was drowned out under the tide 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 deferred after an attack during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since reaching space, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose support were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.

She added that amid the criticism, important benefits had come out of the experience, including increased focus on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

Flight Details

The self-operating spacecraft lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the edge of space.

The team of pioneers also comprised leaders in different industries.

The enterprise behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company established by a Amazon founder.