Crew Member Reveals Emotional Distress Following Deluge of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also carried celebrity crewmates.
The mission was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, referring to a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the period after the landing.
She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
The researcher, who has conducted studies in women's health research and performed experiments during the mission, said everything she had worked for – including her lab work and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her background – was overshadowed under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.
She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.
Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after an attack during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.
The Fog Begins to Lift
Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the supporters whose support were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.
She concluded that despite the negativity, considerable good had emerged from the flight, including spotlight on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
Flight Details
The fully automated spacecraft launched from its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that passed the edge of outer space.
The diverse crew also included accomplished professionals from various fields.
The company behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company founded by a well-known tech mogul.