Astronaut Discloses Emotional Distress After Deluge of Harassment Post-Spaceflight
A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.
Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also included celebrity crewmates.
The mission was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, recalling a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the aftermath of the flight.
She characterized the news reports and online discourse as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“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.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
The researcher, who has conducted studies in women's health research and performed experiments during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her scientific research and astronaut training to the historic significance of her heritage – was buried under the avalanche of misogyny.
She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for survivors of assault.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.
Finding Solid Ground
Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the followers whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.
She added that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the flight, including elevated attention for her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.
The Historic Journey
The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket departed Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the Kármán line of space.
The group of women also featured accomplished professionals from different industries.
The venture behind the flight is a private space firm launched by a well-known tech mogul.
