Astronaut Discloses Emotional Distress After ‘Tsunami of Backlash Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

Amanda Nguyen – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also included well-known figures.

The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, recalling a check-in call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the journey.

She characterized the news reports and online discourse 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.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has conducted studies in women's health research and conducted tests during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her scientific research and years of training to the personal milestone of her background – was buried under the avalanche of misogyny.

She is best known for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of survivors of assault.

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.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after reaching space, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the followers whose support helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.

She added that amid the criticism, important benefits had emerged from the mission, including increased focus on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

About the Mission

The self-operating New Shepard rocket departed its launch site in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the edge of space.

The team of pioneers also comprised experts in multiple disciplines.

The venture behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company launched by a well-known tech mogul.