Space Traveler Reveals Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Wave of Harassment Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also carried high-profile passengers.

The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, referring to a phone call from a fellow crew member in the days following the journey.

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

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on female health science and conducted tests during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her lab work and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her roots – was overshadowed under the tide of gendered attacks.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.

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

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following achieving her goal, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose kindness helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.

She concluded that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the flight, such as increased focus on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The fully automated spacecraft launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that passed the edge of space.

The team of pioneers also featured accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.

The enterprise behind the flight is a private space firm established by a Amazon founder.