Astronaut Shares Emotional Distress After Wave of Backlash Following Journey
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.
Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also carried well-known figures.
The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a online statement, describing a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the days following the journey.
She characterized the press attention and digital reaction as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and performed experiments during the mission, said everything she had worked for – including her studies and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her roots – was buried under the deluge of sexist vitriol.
She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
A Path to Recovery
Months following fulfilling her dream, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the supporters whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.
She noted that even with the backlash, considerable good had resulted from the experience, such as increased focus on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
The Historic Journey
The fully automated spacecraft departed its launch site in April, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that crossed the Kármán line of outer space.
The group of women also comprised experts in different industries.
The company behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a well-known tech mogul.
