Crew Member Reveals Emotional Distress Following Wave of Online Abuse After Historic Trip
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also carried high-profile passengers.
The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, describing a phone call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the landing.
She characterized the news reports and online discourse as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
The researcher, who has conducted studies in women's health research and operated research during the mission, said everything she had worked for – including her studies and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her heritage – was drowned out under the tide of sexist vitriol.
She is widely recognized for her pioneering work championing the cause of 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.
A Path to Recovery
Months following fulfilling her dream, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the followers whose support helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.
She noted that amid the criticism, considerable good had resulted from the mission, including elevated attention for her women's health research and platforms for her activism.
About the Mission
The computer-piloted spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that passed the Kármán line of outer space.
The team of pioneers also comprised leaders in various fields.
The company behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company launched by a Amazon founder.
