Space Traveler Discloses Emotional Distress Following Wave of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath 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 included celebrity crewmates.

The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a public message, referring to a check-in call from a mission companion in the days following the journey.

She described the news reports and online discourse as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“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 dedicated her work to female health science and operated research during the mission, said everything she had worked for – including her lab work and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her background – was overshadowed under the tide of sexist vitriol.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

A Path to Recovery

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

She noted that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the experience, such as increased focus on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that passed the edge of space.

The diverse crew also included experts in various fields.

The venture behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.