Space Traveler Reveals Mental Health Struggle After Deluge of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also included well-known figures.

The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a social media post, recalling a phone call from a mission companion in the days following the flight.

She described the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

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

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on gynecological science and performed experiments during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her studies and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her background – was buried under the deluge of misogyny.

She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for survivors of assault.

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

Finding Solid Ground

Months following achieving her goal, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the well-wishers whose support helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She added that amid the criticism, considerable good had resulted from the flight, including spotlight on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

About the Mission

The fully automated spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that passed the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The diverse crew also comprised experts in multiple disciplines.

The company behind the flight is a private space firm founded by a Amazon founder.