Astronaut Discloses Emotional Distress After ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse After Historic Trip
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also included high-profile passengers.
The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, recalling a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the days following the flight.
She characterized the news reports and online discourse as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“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 conducted studies in gynecological science and operated research during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her scientific research and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was buried under the tide of gendered attacks.
She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
A Path to Recovery
In the time since achieving her goal, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose kindness helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.
She concluded that despite the negativity, considerable good had come out of the flight, such as increased focus on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.
Flight Details
The self-operating New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that passed the Kármán line of outer space.
The group of women also included leaders in various fields.
The company behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company established by a Amazon founder.