Astronaut Discloses Mental Health Struggle After Wave of Harassment Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also carried well-known figures.

The mission was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, describing a check-in call from a mission companion in the period after the landing.

She described the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in female health science and conducted tests during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her scientific research and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was buried under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.

Her own goal of reaching space was paused after an attack during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the followers whose kindness were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she said.

She concluded that despite the negativity, important benefits had come out of the flight, including elevated attention for her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The self-operating spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that crossed the Kármán line of outer space.

The diverse crew also comprised accomplished professionals from different industries.

The enterprise behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.