Space Traveler Shares Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Deluge of Harassment Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut 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 researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also carried high-profile passengers.

The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.

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

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a social media post, describing a check-in call from a mission companion in the period after the flight.

She portrayed the news reports and online discourse as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she wrote. “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 gynecological science and performed experiments during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her scientific research and years of training to the personal milestone of her roots – was overshadowed under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is best known for her pioneering work fighting for justice for survivors of assault.

Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since fulfilling her dream, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the supporters whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.

She added that even with the backlash, important benefits had emerged from the experience, including spotlight on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

About the Mission

The computer-piloted spacecraft departed its launch site in April, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The diverse crew also included leaders in various fields.

The enterprise behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.