Space Traveler Discloses Emotional Distress After Wave of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also carried well-known figures.

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

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a online statement, describing a check-in call from a mission companion in the period after the flight.

She portrayed the news reports and online discourse as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

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

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her scientific research and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her background – was buried under the tide of sexist vitriol.

She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for survivors of assault.

Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.

A Path to Recovery

In the time since fulfilling her dream, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the followers whose support were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She added that amid the criticism, considerable good had emerged from the experience, such as increased focus on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

Flight Details

The fully automated spacecraft launched from its launch site in April, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that passed the Kármán line of outer space.

The team of pioneers also featured accomplished professionals from various fields.

The enterprise behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.