Astronaut Shares Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Harassment After Historic Trip

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

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 mission was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, recalling a phone call from a mission companion in the period after the landing.

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

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

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has focused her career on female health science and performed experiments during the mission, said everything she had worked for – from her studies and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her roots – was overshadowed under the tide of gendered attacks.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following reaching space, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose kindness helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She added that despite the negativity, important benefits had resulted from the flight, including elevated attention for her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The fully automated New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the edge of outer space.

The diverse crew also included accomplished professionals from various fields.

The company behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company established by a well-known tech mogul.