Space Traveler Reveals Emotional Distress In the Wake of Wave of Online Abuse Following Journey
A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also featured high-profile passengers.
The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response 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 supportive conversation from a mission companion in the aftermath of the landing.
She characterized the press attention and digital reaction 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. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Buried Under Misogyny
Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her lab work and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her background – was drowned out under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.
She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.
A Path to Recovery
Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the supporters whose support pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she said.
She concluded that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the mission, including spotlight on 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 all-female team on a 11-minute journey that passed the Kármán line of outer space.
The diverse crew also comprised experts in different industries.
The venture behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
