Astronaut Shares Depression In the Wake of Deluge of Harassment After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in the spring, which also featured well-known figures.

The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, referring to a phone call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the journey.

She portrayed the news reports and online discourse as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she revealed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and operated research during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her scientific research and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her background – was buried under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is best known for her pioneering work championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since reaching space, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.

She noted that amid the criticism, considerable good had resulted from the experience, including increased focus on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The fully automated spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that passed the edge of space.

The group of women also included accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.

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