Space Traveler Discloses Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Wave of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after facing 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 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also carried celebrity crewmates.

The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, referring to a check-in call from a mission companion in the period after the landing.

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

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and operated research during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her studies and years of training to the historic significance of her background – was overshadowed under the tide of misogyny.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for survivors of assault.

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

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following fulfilling her dream, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the well-wishers whose kindness pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she said.

She noted that despite the negativity, considerable good had come out of the mission, such as increased focus on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that crossed the Kármán line of outer space.

The team of pioneers also included experts in multiple disciplines.

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