Crew Member Reveals Emotional Distress After Wave of Backlash Post-Spaceflight
A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also carried celebrity crewmates.
The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a public message, recalling 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 “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.
“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
The researcher, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and operated research during the mission, said every professional achievement – including her scientific research and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her background – was overshadowed under the deluge of gendered attacks.
She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of survivors of assault.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.
The Fog Begins to Lift
Months following fulfilling her dream, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she said.
She noted that amid the criticism, important benefits had resulted from the mission, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and platforms for her activism.
The Historic Journey
The fully automated spacecraft departed Texas in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of space.
The group of women also included accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.
The enterprise behind the flight is a private space firm founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
