Astronaut Shares Mental Health Struggle Following Deluge of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also featured well-known figures.

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

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, recalling a phone call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the landing.

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

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to female health science and conducted tests during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her studies and years of training to the historic significance of her background – was buried under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.

Her own goal of reaching space was paused after an attack during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following fulfilling her dream, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the supporters whose support were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.

She noted that despite the negativity, considerable good had come out of the mission, including elevated attention for her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The fully automated New Shepard rocket departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the edge of space.

The group of women also included leaders in multiple disciplines.

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