Space Traveler Shares Emotional Distress After ‘Tsunami of Harassment Following Journey
A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also featured high-profile passengers.
The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a online statement, recalling a check-in call from a mission companion in the days following the journey.
She described 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 confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Buried Under Misogyny
Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said everything she had worked for – including her lab work 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 fighting for justice for survivors of assault.
Her own goal of reaching space was paused after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.
Finding Solid Ground
In the time since achieving her goal, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the supporters whose kindness were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.
She added that even with the backlash, considerable good had come out of the experience, such as increased focus on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
Flight Details
The fully automated New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that passed the edge of 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.
