Crew Member Discloses Emotional Distress In the Wake of Deluge of Backlash Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also included well-known figures.

The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, referring to a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the period after the journey.

She described the press attention and digital reaction as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and performed experiments during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her lab work and years of training to the personal milestone of her heritage – was buried under the avalanche of misogyny.

She is widely recognized for her pioneering work protecting the rights of survivors of assault.

Her own goal of reaching space was paused after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

Finding Solid Ground

Months following fulfilling her dream, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the followers whose kindness pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she said.

She concluded that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had come out of the experience, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

About the Mission

The computer-piloted spacecraft launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The diverse crew also comprised accomplished professionals from various fields.

The venture behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company founded by a Amazon founder.