Astronaut Reveals Emotional Distress In the Wake of Deluge of Online Abuse Following Journey
A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also included well-known figures.
The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, referring to a check-in call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the landing.
She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.
“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she revealed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Buried Under Misogyny
The researcher, who has conducted studies in female health science and conducted tests during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her lab work and years of training to the historic significance of her heritage – was overshadowed under the tide of sexist vitriol.
She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.
A Path to Recovery
In the time since achieving her goal, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the well-wishers whose kindness helped save her. “You all saved me,” she said.
She concluded that even with the backlash, important benefits had emerged from the flight, including spotlight on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.
Flight Details
The computer-piloted spacecraft departed Texas in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that crossed the Kármán line of space.
The group of women also comprised leaders in various fields.
The company behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company launched by a well-known tech mogul.
