Space Traveler Reveals Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Harassment After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also included high-profile passengers.

The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, 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 public message, referring to a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the days following the flight.

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

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and performed experiments during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her studies and years of training to the historic significance of her heritage – was buried under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is best known for her pioneering work protecting the rights of survivors of assault.

Her own goal of reaching space was paused after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the well-wishers whose kindness pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she said.

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

Flight Details

The fully automated spacecraft launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The diverse crew also featured leaders in multiple disciplines.

The company behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a Amazon founder.