Space Traveler Shares Mental Health Struggle Following Wave of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

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

The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, recalling a phone call from a fellow crew member in the period after the flight.

She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction 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

The researcher, who has conducted studies in women's health research and conducted tests during the mission, said every professional achievement – including her scientific research and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her roots – was buried under the deluge of misogyny.

She is best known for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of survivors of assault.

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

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following achieving her goal, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose support were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.

She noted that amid the criticism, important benefits had come out of the experience, such as elevated attention for her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

About the Mission

The computer-piloted spacecraft launched from its launch site in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that crossed the edge of outer space.

The diverse crew also included leaders in multiple disciplines.

The enterprise behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.