Space Traveler Shares Depression After ‘Tsunami of Harassment After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also featured well-known figures.

The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, describing a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the period after the journey.

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

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she revealed. “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 mission, said every professional achievement – including her studies and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her background – was overshadowed under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

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

Her own goal of reaching space was paused after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.

She added that even with the backlash, important benefits had resulted from the mission, including spotlight on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted spacecraft lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of space.

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

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