Astronaut Reveals Emotional Distress In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Harassment After Historic Trip
A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also featured high-profile passengers.
The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, 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,” she recounted in a online statement, referring to a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the journey.
She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Buried Under Misogyny
Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on gynecological science and operated research during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her scientific research and years of training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was drowned out under the deluge of sexist vitriol.
She is best known for her pioneering work championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
Finding Solid Ground
Months following achieving her goal, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the followers whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “You all saved me,” she wrote.
She concluded that even with the backlash, important benefits had come out of the mission, such as increased focus on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
The Historic Journey
The self-operating New Shepard rocket departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that exceeded the edge of space.
The diverse crew also included accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.
The company behind the flight is a private space firm founded by a Amazon founder.
