Space Traveler Reveals Depression After Wave of Backlash Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also included well-known figures.

The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a social media post, recalling a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the period after the journey.

She described the news reports and online discourse as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she confessed. “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 flight, said everything she had worked for – from her studies and astronaut training to the historic significance of her background – was buried under the deluge of misogyny.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following fulfilling her dream, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the supporters whose support helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.

She added that despite the negativity, considerable good had resulted from the experience, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

About the Mission

The computer-piloted spacecraft departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that passed the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The group of women also included accomplished professionals from various fields.

The venture behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company founded by a well-known tech mogul.