Space Traveler Reveals Emotional Distress In the Wake of Deluge of Harassment Following Journey
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also featured high-profile passengers.
The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a online statement, describing a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the period after the flight.
She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.
“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she revealed. “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 performed experiments during the flight, said everything she had worked for – including her studies and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her background – was overshadowed under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.
She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of survivors of assault.
Her own goal of reaching space was paused after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
The Fog Begins to Lift
Now, eight months after reaching space, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose kindness helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she said.
She added that despite the negativity, considerable good had emerged from the flight, including spotlight on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
The Historic Journey
The fully automated New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.
The group of women also comprised accomplished professionals from different industries.
The venture behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company established by a Amazon founder.
