Crew Member Shares Mental Health Struggle Following ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
Amanda Nguyen – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in the spring, which also included celebrity crewmates.
The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a public message, describing a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the days following the flight.
She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.
“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on female health science and performed experiments during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her studies and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her roots – was overshadowed under the avalanche of misogyny.
She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.
Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
The Fog Begins to Lift
In the time since reaching space, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the followers whose kindness pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she said.
She noted that amid the criticism, considerable good had come out of the flight, including spotlight on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
About the Mission
The self-operating spacecraft launched from its launch site in April, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that crossed the Kármán line of outer space.
The diverse crew also comprised experts in multiple disciplines.
The company behind the flight is a private space firm established by a well-known tech mogul.
