Astronaut Reveals Emotional Distress Following Deluge of Harassment Following Journey

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

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also featured high-profile passengers.

The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, recalling a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the days following the flight.

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

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and conducted tests during the mission, said everything she had worked for – from her studies and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was overshadowed under the tide of misogyny.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for survivors of assault.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after reaching space, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the followers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.

She added that despite the negativity, considerable good had emerged from the flight, such as increased focus on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The self-operating New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that crossed the edge of outer space.

The diverse crew also featured leaders in various fields.

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