Space Traveler Discloses Mental Health Struggle Following Deluge of Harassment Following Journey
A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
Amanda Nguyen – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also featured high-profile passengers.
The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, describing a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the days following the journey.
She characterized the news reports and online discourse as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she confessed. “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 women's health research and operated research during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her scientific research and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her roots – was overshadowed under the deluge of misogyny.
She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.
Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
A Path to Recovery
In the time since fulfilling her dream, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.
She concluded that even with the backlash, important benefits had resulted from the mission, such as increased focus on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.
The Historic Journey
The self-operating spacecraft launched from Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the Kármán line of outer space.
The group of women also included experts in different industries.
The venture behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
