Astronaut Shares Emotional Distress Following Deluge of Backlash After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also carried well-known figures.

The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, referring to a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the flight.

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

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has focused her career on gynecological science and conducted tests during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her scientific research and years of training to the historic significance of her heritage – was overshadowed under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is widely recognized for her pioneering work protecting the rights of survivors of assault.

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

Finding Solid Ground

Months following reaching space, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the followers whose support were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.

She concluded that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the mission, including increased focus on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that crossed the Kármán line of outer space.

The team of pioneers also featured experts in different industries.

The venture behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company founded by a well-known tech mogul.