Space Traveler Discloses Emotional Distress In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also featured well-known figures.
The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, recalling a phone call from a fellow crew member in the days following the landing.
She characterized 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 revealed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Buried Under Misogyny
Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to female health science and operated research during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her scientific research and years of training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was drowned out under the tide of sexist vitriol.
She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after an attack during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.
The Fog Begins to Lift
Months following fulfilling her dream, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose kindness were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.
She concluded that despite the negativity, considerable good had emerged from the flight, such as increased focus on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.
Flight Details
The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that passed the internationally recognized boundary of space.
The diverse crew also comprised experts in various fields.
The venture behind the flight is a private space firm established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
