Crew Member Reveals Emotional Distress Following Deluge of Harassment Following Journey
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” 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 much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, describing a phone call from a fellow crew member in the period after the landing.
She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and performed experiments during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her scientific research and astronaut training to the historic significance of her background – was overshadowed under the tide of sexist vitriol.
She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.
Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
A Path to Recovery
In the time since reaching space, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the supporters whose kindness pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she said.
She noted that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the mission, including elevated attention for her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
The Historic Journey
The fully automated spacecraft launched from its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that passed the edge of space.
The diverse crew also comprised experts in various fields.
The venture behind the mission is a private space firm founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
