Astronaut Reveals Mental Health Struggle Following ‘Tsunami of Harassment Post-Spaceflight
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.
Amanda Nguyen – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also featured high-profile passengers.
The mission was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, recalling a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the period after the journey.
She described the press attention and digital reaction as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in women's health research and performed experiments during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her studies and astronaut training to the historic significance of her heritage – was buried under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.
She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after an attack during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
A Path to Recovery
Months following achieving her goal, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose support pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.
She noted that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had come out of the mission, including elevated attention for her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.
Flight Details
The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket departed Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of space.
The group of women also featured accomplished professionals from various fields.
The enterprise behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company established by a well-known tech mogul.
