Space Traveler Shares Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Deluge of Harassment Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also featured high-profile passengers.

The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a social media post, describing a phone call from a fellow crew member in the period after the journey.

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

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

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has focused her career on gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her studies and astronaut training to the historic significance of her heritage – was buried under the tide of gendered attacks.

She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for survivors of assault.

Her own goal of reaching space was paused after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

Finding Solid Ground

In the time since fulfilling her dream, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose kindness were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.

She noted that despite the negativity, important benefits had resulted from the experience, such as spotlight on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The self-operating spacecraft departed Texas in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that exceeded the Kármán line of outer space.

The diverse crew also included accomplished professionals from different industries.

The venture behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company founded by a Amazon founder.