Astronaut Shares Mental Health Struggle Following Deluge of Backlash After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her emotional downturn 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 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also included high-profile passengers.

The mission was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, recalling a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the aftermath of the journey.

She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to female health science and performed experiments during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her lab work and years of training to the historic significance of her heritage – was buried under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for survivors of assault.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following achieving her goal, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the well-wishers whose kindness helped save her. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She added that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the mission, such as spotlight on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The self-operating spacecraft lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that passed the edge of space.

The team of pioneers also included experts in various fields.

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