Crew Member Reveals Emotional Distress After Deluge of Online Abuse Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also featured celebrity crewmates.

The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, recalling a phone call from a mission companion in the period after the flight.

She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has focused her career on female health science and conducted tests during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her studies and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her roots – was buried under the tide of misogyny.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following achieving her goal, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the followers whose kindness were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.

She added that despite the negativity, important benefits had emerged from the experience, such as spotlight on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

The computer-piloted spacecraft departed its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The diverse crew also comprised experts in various fields.

The company behind the flight is a private space firm established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.