Astronaut Shares Emotional Distress Following Wave of Backlash Post-Spaceflight

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

Amanda Nguyen – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also carried high-profile passengers.

The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“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 period after the journey.

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

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and conducted tests during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her studies and astronaut training to the historic significance of her heritage – was overshadowed under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.

Her own goal of reaching space was paused after an attack during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after reaching space, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose support helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She added that even with the backlash, important benefits had resulted from the mission, such as elevated attention for her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

About the Mission

The fully automated New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that passed the Kármán line of space.

The team of pioneers also included experts in different industries.

The company behind the mission is a private space firm established by a well-known tech mogul.