Space Traveler Reveals Depression Following ‘Tsunami of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath 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 included well-known figures.

The mission was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a social media post, describing a check-in call from a mission companion in the days following the flight.

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

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and operated research during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her scientific research and years of training to the personal milestone of her background – was drowned out under the tide of misogyny.

She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after an attack during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose kindness helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she said.

She added that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the experience, including elevated attention for her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The fully automated spacecraft lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The team of pioneers also included experts in different industries.

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