Space Traveler Discloses Emotional Distress Following Wave of Harassment After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

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

The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, referring to a phone call from a fellow crew member in the days following the landing.

She described the news reports and online discourse as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to female health science and conducted tests during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her studies and years of training to the historic significance of her background – was drowned out under the deluge of gendered attacks.

She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

Finding Solid Ground

In the time since reaching space, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the followers whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She added that despite the negativity, considerable good had resulted from the mission, such as elevated attention for her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

The Historic Journey

The fully automated spacecraft launched from Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the edge of outer space.

The group of women also comprised experts in various fields.

The enterprise behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company launched by a Amazon founder.