Astronaut Reveals Emotional Distress In the Wake of Deluge of Backlash Following Journey
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.
Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also featured high-profile passengers.
The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a online statement, recalling a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the aftermath of the journey.
She described the news reports and online discourse as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on female health science and conducted tests during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her scientific research and years of training to the personal milestone of her background – was buried under the tide of sexist vitriol.
She is best known for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
A Path to Recovery
Months following fulfilling her dream, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose support pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.
She concluded that amid the criticism, important benefits had resulted from the mission, including increased focus on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
The Historic Journey
The fully automated New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that crossed the Kármán line of outer space.
The team of pioneers also comprised accomplished professionals from different industries.
The company behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company founded by a well-known tech mogul.
