Space Traveler Reveals Mental Health Struggle Following ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also carried high-profile passengers.

The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost 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 “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a online statement, referring to a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the days following the journey.

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

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” 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 flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her lab work and astronaut training to the historic significance of her background – was drowned out under the deluge of misogyny.

She is widely recognized for her pioneering work protecting the rights of survivors of assault.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following reaching space, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose support were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she wrote.

She added that amid the criticism, important benefits had emerged from the mission, such as spotlight on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The fully automated spacecraft lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the Kármán line of space.

The group of women also comprised accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.

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