Astronaut Reveals Mental Health Struggle After ‘Tsunami of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also featured celebrity crewmates.

The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a online statement, referring to a phone call from a fellow crew member in the days following the flight.

She described the press attention and digital reaction as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in women's health research and operated research during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her lab work and years of training to the historic significance of her background – was drowned out under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is widely recognized for her pioneering work protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after an attack during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since reaching space, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose support helped save her. “You all saved me,” she wrote.

She noted that amid the criticism, considerable good had emerged from the flight, including elevated attention for her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted spacecraft launched from Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the edge of outer space.

The team of pioneers also featured experts in various fields.

The company behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a Amazon founder.