Astronaut Discloses Mental Health Struggle Following Wave of Backlash After Historic Trip

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

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also included celebrity crewmates.

The mission was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, referring to a phone call from a mission companion in the days following the journey.

She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

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

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on gynecological science and conducted tests during the mission, said everything she had worked for – from her scientific research and astronaut training to the historic significance of her background – was buried under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after an attack during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

Finding Solid Ground

Months following fulfilling her dream, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose kindness helped save her. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She concluded that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the experience, including elevated attention for her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

Flight Details

The fully automated New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that exceeded the edge of space.

The team of pioneers also comprised accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.

The company behind the flight is a private space firm launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.