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

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in the spring, which also featured celebrity crewmates.

The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, recalling a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the period after the journey.

She portrayed 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. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to female health science and performed experiments during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her studies and years of training to the symbolic importance of her roots – was drowned out under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for survivors of assault.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after an attack during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the followers whose kindness helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.

She noted that amid the criticism, important benefits had come out of the flight, such as increased focus on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The fully automated New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that crossed the edge of space.

The group of women also featured accomplished professionals from different industries.

The enterprise behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company established by a well-known tech mogul.