Space Traveler Reveals Emotional Distress Following Deluge of Harassment Following Journey
A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.
Amanda Nguyen – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in the spring, which also featured celebrity crewmates.
The mission was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, recalling a check-in call from a mission companion in the days following the flight.
She described the news reports and online discourse as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.
“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
The researcher, who has conducted studies in women's health research and operated research during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her studies and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her heritage – was buried under the tide of gendered attacks.
She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for survivors of assault.
Her own goal of reaching space was paused after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
The Fog Begins to Lift
In the time since reaching space, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the supporters whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.
She concluded that despite the negativity, considerable good had come out of the flight, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and platforms for her activism.
About the Mission
The fully automated spacecraft lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.
The team of pioneers also comprised accomplished professionals from various fields.
The company behind the flight is a private space firm established by a well-known tech mogul.
