Crew Member Shares Emotional Distress Following Deluge of Online Abuse Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also featured well-known figures.

The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, referring to a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the period after the journey.

She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of 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 focused her career on gynecological science and operated research during the mission, said everything she had worked for – from her lab work and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her background – was drowned out under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

A Path to Recovery

In the time since reaching space, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose kindness helped save her. “You all saved me,” she wrote.

She noted that amid the criticism, important benefits had come out of the experience, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

About the Mission

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that crossed the Kármán line of space.

The group of women also included experts in multiple disciplines.

The enterprise behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company founded by a Amazon founder.