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

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also featured well-known figures.

The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, referring to a check-in call from a mission companion in the period after the landing.

She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and operated research during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her studies and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was overshadowed under the tide of sexist vitriol.

She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of survivors of assault.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

A Path to Recovery

In the time since fulfilling her dream, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the followers whose support helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.

She concluded that even with the backlash, important benefits had resulted from the mission, including spotlight on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The self-operating spacecraft lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The group of women also comprised experts in multiple disciplines.

The venture behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a well-known tech mogul.