Space Traveler Reveals Emotional Distress In the Wake of Deluge of Backlash Following Journey
A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
Amanda Nguyen – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also carried well-known figures.
The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a public message, recalling a phone call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the flight.
She described the press attention and digital reaction as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she revealed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
The researcher, who has focused her career on women's health research and conducted tests during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her scientific research and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her background – was buried under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.
She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.
Finding Solid Ground
In the time since reaching space, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the supporters whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she said.
She concluded that even with the backlash, important benefits had come out of the experience, such as increased focus on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.
The Historic Journey
The computer-piloted spacecraft departed its launch site in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.
The diverse crew also included experts in various fields.
The enterprise behind the mission is a private space firm founded by a well-known tech mogul.
