Crew Member Discloses Emotional Distress In the Wake of Deluge of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in the spring, which also carried high-profile passengers.

The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, referring to a phone call from a mission companion in the days following the flight.

She characterized 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 confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and performed experiments during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her scientific research and years of training to the symbolic importance of her roots – was drowned out under the tide of misogyny.

She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

Finding Solid Ground

Now, eight months after reaching space, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose kindness pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She added that amid the criticism, considerable good had come out of the experience, such as spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The computer-piloted spacecraft departed its launch site in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The group of women also comprised leaders in different industries.

The enterprise behind the flight is a private space firm launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.