Astronaut Shares Emotional Distress After ‘Tsunami of Backlash Post-Spaceflight
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also carried well-known figures.
The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, recalling a phone call from a mission companion in the period after the landing.
She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.
“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she revealed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
The researcher, who has conducted studies in women's health research and conducted tests during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her lab work and years of training to the personal milestone of her background – was drowned out under the avalanche of gendered attacks.
She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.
Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
The Fog Begins to Lift
Months following achieving her goal, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose kindness helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she said.
She concluded that even with the backlash, important benefits had resulted from the mission, including spotlight on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.
About the Mission
The fully automated New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that exceeded the edge of outer space.
The diverse crew also included leaders in various fields.
The venture behind the flight is a private space firm established by a Amazon founder.