Astronaut Reveals Emotional Distress Following Wave of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also featured well-known figures.
The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“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 days following the flight.
She portrayed the news reports and online discourse as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
The researcher, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and performed experiments during the flight, said everything she had worked for – including her lab work and astronaut training to the historic significance of her heritage – was drowned out under the deluge of misogyny.
She is best known for her pioneering work championing the cause of survivors of assault.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
A Path to Recovery
Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she said.
She noted that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the mission, such as increased focus on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.
Flight Details
The fully automated New Shepard rocket departed Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.
The team of pioneers also featured leaders in various fields.
The company behind the flight is a private space firm launched by a well-known tech mogul.