Space Traveler Shares Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Backlash Post-Spaceflight
A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also featured well-known figures.
The mission was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, referring to a phone call from a mission companion in the period after the flight.
She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“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.”
Buried Under Misogyny
The researcher, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and conducted tests during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her scientific research and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her roots – was buried under the deluge of gendered attacks.
She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of survivors of assault.
Her own goal of reaching space was paused after an attack during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
Finding Solid Ground
In the time since achieving her goal, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the supporters whose support were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.
She concluded that even with the backlash, considerable good had resulted from the flight, including elevated attention for her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
Flight Details
The fully automated spacecraft departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the Kármán line of space.
The group of women also included accomplished professionals from various fields.
The venture behind the flight is a private space firm established by a well-known tech mogul.
