Astronaut Shares Emotional Distress In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Harassment Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also featured high-profile passengers.

The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, referring to a check-in 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”.

“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.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her studies and years of training to the personal milestone of her background – was buried under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following achieving her goal, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the supporters whose kindness pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.

She concluded that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the experience, such as spotlight on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that passed the edge of outer space.

The team of pioneers also included accomplished professionals from different industries.

The venture behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company launched by a Amazon founder.