Astronaut Reveals Emotional Distress Following Deluge of Harassment Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also featured high-profile passengers.

The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a social media post, recalling a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the period after the flight.

She described the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

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

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has focused her career on gynecological science and operated research during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her scientific research and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her background – was overshadowed under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is best known for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of survivors of assault.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following achieving her goal, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose kindness were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.

She concluded that even with the backlash, considerable good had resulted from the mission, such as increased focus on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

About the Mission

The fully automated spacecraft launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The diverse crew also comprised accomplished professionals from various fields.

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